Childrens author visits Tyndall Elementary

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Timothy R. Capling
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Children at Tyndall Air Force Base Elementary School received a visit Oct. 25 and 26 from Michael Shoulders, Clarksville, Tenn. children's book writer.

Mr. Shoulders, a retired teacher and administrator, made the visit as part of his nation-wide school tour.

"At the beginning of the school year, a county committee selects from a list of authors to come read to the children," said Pat Mader, teacher at Tyndall AFB Elementary School and event coordinator. "We usually get one author a year here at Tyndall," Ms. Mader said.

To date, Mr. Shoulders has published nine books. Six are available for purchase, and three others are scheduled to be available in the future. His most recent creation, a book titled "Say Daddy!" is slated to arrive in stores in January.

Mr. Shoulders, who grew up in an Army family, started writing in 1995 and first published in 2001.

During his school presentations, he uses magic, humor and self-made rap lyrics to explain the writing and publishing with an emphasis on revision and persistence.

On his Web site, Mr. Shoulders said, "For me, a school visit is exciting because I get to meet the teachers, boys and girls who read my books!"

His appearance drew positive response from the students and staff.

"We were fortunate to have Michael Shoulders visit," Ms. Mader said. "I have heard nothing but rave reviews from students and teachers alike. Some have said he's the best we've ever had."

The administration was pleased with the presentation as well.

"It's good for students to see how to connect what they are learning in school to the real world," said Libbie Pippin, Tyndall AFB Elementary School principal. "When they have a chance to meet a published author who can demonstrate his work and answer their questions, they make a vital connection to the importance of learning."

Mr. Shoulders is scheduled to appear at various locations throughout Bay County during the next three weeks. For a detailed schedule, visit his Web site at http://www.michaelshoulders.com .