By Ann Niederkorn, G&P Librarian
We were SO excited to host Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow for a very memorable visit with first and second grade students on Tuesday, February 28. She has written four picture books and contributed to a story collection for older students. We learned that she will have two more books published in 2023. We can’t wait to read them! Author Jamilah was warm, engaging, and really fun. She had students riveted as she read two stories: Mommy’s Khimar and Your Name Is a Song. She also modeled beautiful khimars, answered questions, and got them singing their names and using their imaginations. It was heartwarming to watch students light up, vigorously shaking their hands in the “connection” sign, as she talked with them. Educators often talk about books that provide “windows and mirrors” that can help students understand others and to see themselves reflected in stories. Author Jamilah’s books clearly do both for our students. And the opportunity to meet her in person and find out about the life of an author was an extra special treat.