Young Authors Festival Welcomes Aaron Reynolds

Youth AuthorsMixing his writing skills with his culinary training…and some onions and tomatoes…visiting children’s author Aaron Reynolds had kids laughing—and even cooking—at Trinity’s annual Young Authors Festival.

Students from several area Christian grade schools visited campus on Tuesday, May 4, to celebrate their achievements and expand their passion for writing and reading.

The morning opened with a time of praise led by Trinity senior Vinnie Adams of Oostburg, Wisconsin. Afterwards, the children, accompanied by Trinity student volunteers, were divided into groups and participated in three sessions. Sessions included small group discussions, TrinProv performances, and the chance to hear from author Aaron Reynolds.

Young AuthorsReynolds is the author of numerous children’s books, including Joey Fly, Private Eye and his newest work, Buffalo Wings. After reading his comical picture book Chicks and Salsa to the kids, Reynolds invited a few students to help him actually make salsa, an entertaining exercise that illustrated his point that books inspire.

“Sometimes reading sets off this little explosion in your head or heart,” he told them. “Books inspire you to do something you’ve never done.”

The Young Authors Festival, in its 20th year, is organized by the combined efforts of Assistant Professor of Education Joy Meyer ’78 and other dedicated committee members.

More about the author
Aaron Reynolds is sought-after worldwide as a speaker and consultant in the area of children’s ministry. Previously, he served as a teacher and artistic director for the children’s ministry of Willow Creek Community Church. With a degree in theatre from Illinois Wesleyan University, the author led an exciting career life in acting, business, dancing, and culinary arts before settling on writing. He loves his opportunities to talk with children and hear their responses to his books. Feeding off their questions and comments, Reynolds often finds new ideas for stories. For more information, visit www.aaron-reynolds.com.