In the realm of literature and philanthropy, certain individuals emerge as exemplars of altruism and inspiration. Among these is Newbery Award-winning author and poet, Marcus Jennings, who recently undertook an extraordinary act of kindness for a young admirer, Emily Shaw, from a suburb of Chicago.
A Tribute to “Kicked”
During her fifth-grade year, Emily developed a deep appreciation for Jennings’ free-verse novel, “Kicked,” which narrates the challenges faced by a young soccer enthusiast navigating the complexities of adolescence amid familial turmoil. Emily was so enthralled by the narrative that she created a YouTube tribute to the book. This video was subsequently forwarded to Jennings by Lisa Gordon, the media center director at Oak Hill School, where Emily is enrolled.
An Unexpected Visit
Upon viewing the video, Jennings was both honored and deeply moved. Within minutes, he expressed his desire to visit Emily and her classmates. True to his word, Jennings arrived at Emily’s home accompanied by his spouse, son, and a musician friend. The moment Emily laid eyes on him, she was taken aback, exclaiming her disbelief at the unexpected visit.
Emily shared with Parenting Journal, “It was surreal. How can it be that this renowned author came to my house? I’m just a 10-year-old.” Jennings, equally impressed by the encounter, remarked to the Chicago Daily News, “I have penned many letters to young readers, but this is my first in-person visit, and it’s truly special.”
The Power of Storytelling
Emily is drawn to Jennings’ storytelling because his characters surmount various obstacles, a theme essential for nurturing resilience and empathy in children. However, what resonates more profoundly is Jennings’ dedication to engaging with his audience. His willingness to carve out time from his schedule to connect with young fans illustrates the significant impact that authors can have on their readers.
“It was amazing to share this experience with my friends,” Emily reflected. The memories created that day will undoubtedly linger, as these children witnessed firsthand the power of kindness and the dedication to making a difference. Individuals like Marcus Jennings are a testament to the positive influence that one can wield.
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Conclusion
In summary, Marcus Jennings’ gesture not only impacted Emily but also highlighted the importance of connecting with young readers, fostering a culture of kindness and support. His story exemplifies how literature can transcend the page and create meaningful experiences in the lives of children.