My Favourite Socks

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of paying a visit to an amazing school in Calgary, Alberta–Simon Fraser School. The audiences of grades 5, 6, and 7 students were incredibly attentive, asked great questions, and were willing participants in the silliness that overcame all of us during moments of outrageousness.

Much to my surprise, upon leaving the school, I was presented with a great deal of swag, including the most comfortable socks I now own. Hours after receiving them, I wore them on a long run my daughter and I did along the banks of the Bow River. I'm sure my pace was quickened by the mere fact I wore Simon Fraser School socks.

Thanks to Meghan and her great kids for a very enjoyable morning, delicious lunch, and some great memories.

An Interview With . . .

I'm in the Canadian Teacher Magazine! You can read my interview right here:

http://www.canadianteachermagazine.com/pdf/CTM-JanFeb2012-can-write.pdf.

Thanks to Margriet Ruurs for doing the interview!

Welcome to the World, Sophie!

The best of 2011 was saved to the last . . . Sophie Madeline Bell born on Dec. 31st!

Box of Shocks Study Guide Now Available

These dancers are dancing up a storm . . . Why? Because they've just heard that the all new, fresh off the brain, Box of Shocks Study Guide is available for teachers, parents, or anyone else who wants to dig down into the depths of this new novel.

To get your free copy . . . Yes! You read that right . . . Free copy . . . All you have to do is let me know the general geographic region you live in (just because I'm curious where Box of Shocks has gotten to), and I'll send you the attachment.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Marshmallow Pizza?

One of the highlights of the book launch of Box of Shocks was being presented with Oliver's "most favourite food in the whole world" . . . marshmallow pizza. Rea put this together, and later in the evening, I had a taste. I can assure you, it was VERY sweet. I can confirm that marshmallow pizza is most definitely something Oliver would declare to be his favourite food. As for me . . . well . . .

Out to Launch!

Thanks to all of the 250 or so people who came out for the Box of Shocks launch. What an evening! These two photos captured the left hand side of the crowd followed by the right hand. I missed a whole bunch of people on either side and a bunch at the back, but I think you get the idea. Many thanks to Silke, Heather, Loyola, Rea, Lisa, Melanie, Madison, Josh and many many more who helped make this such a great event.

The Official Book Launch Poster