Children's writer says books unite families

By Nancy Yang
The Collegian

Brought together by their love of reading, more than 250 people filled the Residence Dining Hall Monday night to hear from award-winning children’s author and illustrator Steven Kellogg.

The author, perhaps best known for his retellings of the childhood tales of Johnny Appleseed, Pecos Bill and Paul Bunyan, told an enthusiastic audience about the importance of reading for kids and about turning stories into art.

“Books are tools; they ignite children,” Kellogg said, whose books were sold out before the beginning of the lecture. “Half of the book is one lap, and the other half is in the other lap. It bridges the two together.”

“I remember how much I loved stories when I was a child. My adulthood evolves around stories,” he said.

On two easels, Kellogg illustrated the story of his career through one of his books, “The Island of Skog.” From his life experiences, Kellogg said, he would apply things directly yot his books.

But he didn’t finish the whole story.

“You would have to find out what happens at your nearest library,” Kellogg said.

Applause overflowed from the hall several times as Kellogg spoke. Many people in attendance agreed that the event, sponsored by Jumpstart, the Arne Nixon Center for the Study of Children’s literature and Fresno READS, was clearly a success.

Lynn Taliaferro, a Fresno State alumnus from 1971, said he enjoyed how Kellogg “turns real life into fantasy.”

“I like the way he approaches his stories,” Taliaferro, a retired teacher who hopes to become a writer. He said he believes attending Kellogg’s presentation will help with his future writings.

Taliaferro, also brought his wife, Joanna Taliaferro.

“I’m not familiar with his [Kellogg’s] books, but his message was so powerful,” Joanna Taliaferro said.

“Books can bring people, especially family, together.”

Fresno State freshman Angela Her, who is affiliated with Fresno READ, said Kellogg’s lecture was “awesome” and said his appearance was the perfect opportunity to promote reading for children.

Her hoped other audience members got the message she got: “You don’t have to know how to write. You can just apply your personal experiences into a book,” she said.

Another freshman, Crystal Loche, who is with Jumpstart, also enjoyed Kellogg’s presentation and was happy that some many attended the lecture despite the rain.

Loche said enthusiasm like Kellogg’s is what children need.

Kellogg last appeared in Fresno in 1982 and said when he needs to decide what to write about, he refers back to one of his own books “Best Friends.”

“You write about someone or something you care about, love or something important,” said Kellogg, who has written more than 100 books in a 40-year career.

“Writing is like keeping a best friend. It takes hard work. Art is feeling,” he said.

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