The Saugus Public Library and the Belmonte STEAM Academy joined forces to bring nationally recognized children’s author Jerry Pallotta to meet 2nd and 3rd grade Saugus students on March 23rd. Pallotta’s Who Would Win series is hugely popular with kids. His imaginative nonfiction books are fact filled, beautifully illustrated, and fun to read.
Jerry is an award-winning author, local to Massachusetts. He was inspired to write by his life experiences growing up on the shores of Scituate, MA. His first book, The Ocean Alphabet, is a bestseller at the New England Aquarium. Pallotta is also a charismatic public speaker who enjoys inspiring children through his author visits.
The Saugus Cultural Council funded the grant, written and supplemented by Head of Children’s Services Amy Melton of the Saugus Public Library, that made this visit possible. Amy worked closely with Kristen Barclay, Curriculum Coach at the Belmonte, who coordinated and hosted the event.
This project is a follow up to the previous virtual visits by Lauren Tarshis (I Survived series) and Eric Litwin (Pete the Cat). Last year the library brought author Alec Carvlin (How to Bake a Universe) to the Veteran’s Early Learning Center for an in-person visit.
The library is grateful to work closely with the Saugus School district and its staff so that as many students as possible can attend these author visits. The library is grateful to the Saugus Cultural Council for supporting children, literacy, and the arts in our community. Additionally, the New Friends of the Saugus Public Library generously donated copies of Pallotta’s books to Belmonte in preparation for the visit.
This collaboration among the partners has introduced our students to world class authors both virtually and in person. We look forward to continuing to provide similar literacy opportunities for the children of Saugus.
Published: March 23rd, 2023