GCMS students were able to enjoy a Zoom meeting on Monday, November 23 from esteemed author, Jewell Parker Rhodes.  Rhodes' recent popular middle school novel, Ghost Boys was on GCMS's reading list this past summer. 

Dr. Rhodes spoke and interacted with GCMS students about Ghost Boys.  She also talked to them about her other middle school novels, NInth Ward, Sugar, Bayou Magic, Towers Falling, and her newest--Black Brother, Black Brother.  Writing historical fiction from children's perspectives is a common theme in Ms. Rhodes's works, and she encouraged students to 'be you even if others can't see you."    

Face-to-face students were able to enjoy the visit from their teachers' classrooms, but several GCVA students and Track 1 students were able to join from home.  Students participated in a contest where they could submit questions to ask Dr. Rhodes, and students could also submit questions through the zoom chat.

During such a challenging year, it was inspiring to hear Dr. Rhodes' message of hope to students about bearing witness and "taking our pain and turning it into activism."

Not only did Dr. Rhode generously give her time to share her story, but she concluded the interview by donating a shipment of her books to the school. 

This is the second author visit that the school has hosted this year. In September, 8th Grade World History students enjoyed a virtual chat with Tom Rogers, author of Eleven, a book based on the events of September 11 through the eyes of a middle school student.