Chris Crutcher

The man, the myth, the legend; Chris Crutcher, acclaimed YA author, has graced the halls of RAL. While his coming was not associated with a free book give away, there was no less hype about his visit to our lovely school.

Signs were plastered everywhere, T-shirts and books were sold, and permission slips to listen to one of two presentations were passed out in the weeks leading up to this momentous occasion.

Katie Gudgell 12 was chosen in the competition to introduce Crutcher at the assemblies, and she did a great job.

“I was really nervous,” said Gudgell.

For those not aware, Chris Crutcher writes Young Adult Fiction, and has won several awards for his realness and his ability to talk in the language of teens.

However, said language has often led to the banning of his books in several schools and libraries across the country. Thank goodness our library has no such qualms.

“I’m often asked what my favorite books to write were,” said Crutcher, “ And when I get the sheet that shows which book sold the most about once every 6 months, then I know.”

In his presentations, which covered different topics but the same message, Crutcher told various stories of how inspiration for characters came from teens or kids he has worked with as a therapist.

“I knew I had to make the character of Sarah Byrnes (from the novel Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes) super tough, willing to withstand anything,” said Crutcher during one of the assemblies, “When this girl walked into my office, standing by the door with car keys in hand and just willing me to give her therapy, I knew she was my character.”

After these assemblies, Crutcher got some time off, but not much. During 6^th period, KLTV held a panel discussion with various teachers, administrators, and students; as well as a student filled studio audience.

When everyone on the panel was asked what their favorite YA novel was, Crutcher replied, “Well, all of mine of course!”

Other topics discussed were issues facing teenagers today and how adults can help. There was also a Q & A time for the studio audience.

After this taping was over, there was book signing up in the RAL Library where Crutcher autographed any of his numerous books, some of which were available for sale in the preceding weeks.

“It was really cool to have him sign my books, because he is one of my favorite authors,” said Robyn Ahrens 9.

Later that evening, there was a community presentation in the RAL Auditorium by Crutcher talking about his books.

All in all, the second visit of a renowned author to RAL was just as successful as the first. Hopefully next year we will also get to have such wonderful and informative visits by popular authors.