Our January literary event took place last night at the Alliance for Arts and Culture. Accomplished author Cristy Watson talked to fellow writers about the challenges and rewards of writing High Low fiction. These contemporary stories portray realistic characters and situations, using language that's easy to read.
Ms Watson's books for middle school kids form part of Orca's Currents series. Grade 2-4 reading levels, strong exciting plots, and plenty of dialogue help the reluctant reader succeed. As a teacher in Langley, Cristy Watson witnesses how easy-to-read books can bridge the gap between graphic novels and longer YA books by building essential reading skills.
Watson's "edgier" titles for Lorimer Books fill a niche for teens by portraying difficult questions and issues that kids frequently face today -- problems like the one suggested by Watson's title Cutter Boy. Times change. In 1970, Judy Blume published Are you there, God? It's me, Margaret. At the time, it was considered edgy. Today kids still need to read and understand the world, starting where they are. That remains unchanged.
Cristy Watson hosts an open mouth every 2nd Thursday of the month, at Pelican Rouge Cafe in White Rock. Come one evening and join her.
I agree--a very informative and useful presentation. thanks, Carol and Cristy.
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