Students at Charles Campagne School in Bethpage had the unique opportunity to meet and learn from acclaimed children’s author Alicia Klepeis during her recent visit. Klepeis, who has written over 150 books for young readers—primarily nonfiction—spoke with students across all grades in multiple sessions, sharing her love of writing and the journey that led her to become an author.
In her presentations, Klepeis offered an engaging look into the process behind creating a book. She discussed how she takes her ideas from initial curiosity through research, writing, refining and editing, explaining each step of the process with relatable examples for her young audience. Throughout her sessions, she emphasized the value of curiosity and imagination, encouraging students to explore their interests and think creatively.
The students were excited to ask Klepeis questions, which she answered enthusiastically, sharing insights into her favorite parts of being an author.
She told the students how much she loves her job, explaining that it allows her to dive deep into research on topics she’s curious about and then share what she learns through her books. Her passion for writing was evident, inspiring students to think about how they, too, could turn their interests into stories.
Klepeis also gave practical advice for budding writers. She recommended that students start small by keeping a journal or writing short magazine articles, which she said are “shorter and less commitment than a whole book.” This advice resonated with students, as it offered a manageable way to practice writing and develop their skills.
Klepeis’ visit was a memorable experience for the Charles Campagne students, leaving them with a newfound enthusiasm for writing and storytelling, as well as an appreciation for the dedication it takes to bring a book to life.
