Lulu Delacre came to our high school yesterday to give a presentation of her book, Alicia Afterimage. Her audience was composed of native English speakers and English language learners. Students who were interested in the writing process learned to keep a notebook, to write multiple drafts, to share writing with others, to create the “voice” of characters, to consider design, and to analyze text through de-construction. Lulu read excerpts from the book and asked the students to articulate what they understood through her choice of words. She used “real” visuals from the book to add interest and credibility to the discussion. Students who had read Alicia Afterimage were able to visualize the process in a truly meaningful way. For example, photos of Alicia’s original drawings were shown on the overhead and met with gasps of recognition because they had been seen embedded within the pages of the book. In essence, students “experienced” the process of writing a book from inception to final product.
The presentation then evolved into an interactive exchange of insightful questions, comments, and concerns as the discussion turned naturally into Spanish. The ensuing discussion was focused on the story of Alicia Afterimage and its meaning—students who were unwilling to respond to or ask questions in public were suddenly opening up in small groups. Lulu Delacre—author/instructor—became listener/advisor. As we commented later, “No question was left unanswered.” My students were visibly moved to meet Lulu one-on-one and to have her sign copies of her books, which we had purchased in advance through a grant from our school. We at the Career Center in Arlington, VA are profoundly grateful that Lulu’s presentation, planned for one hour, developed into an additional hour of unforgettable memories for our immigrant adolescents. She has touched their minds and hearts forever through her words and actions.
–Ann A. Kennedy, Ph.D., Reading Specialist, Arlington Career Center
"Just wanted to follow up with you about your visit to Lincolnwood...our staff and students were truly touched by what you shared with them. I wish I could share with you all the comments I've heard from students, parents, and staff about our kids' reactions to your work, and Alicia Afterimage in particular. It has been genuinely heartfelt and appreciative. Everyone is still buzzing days later, as you can tell by our students' thanks and visits to your Facebook page....Our librarians are were especially touched at the time and care you took to visit with them...it will be more than just a highlight for this school year to them.
Once again, thanks for all you did for our students during your visit...you have created a cadre of fans in Chicago and Lincolnwood!"
–Jerry Michel, Vice Principal, Lincoln Hall, Lincolnwood School District 74, Chicago, IL
"... Lulu Delacre presented “Celebrate with Latino Songs & Stories” to dozens of Lakewood families at the Clifton Avenue Grade School. While sharing her books and life experiences, she stressed the importance of keeping one’s heritage and language. Ms. Delacre invited the children to join her on stage and involved the audience with sing-along songs. The “Arroz Con Leche” game and dancing “Shake it Morena!” were a real hit!."
– Rachel Klein, Media Specialist, Clifton Avenue Grade School, Lakewood, NJ
Lulu came to ASP in October 2008 and spent two days with our students.... For the second day, I asked Lulu to work with a group of four 6th grade classes and one upper school theater class who enjoyed her Salsa Stories and the focus on ideas, illustrating and culture. Her words echoed and confirmed what teachers have continually been saying: “Yes, the writing process is used even by real writers.” “Yes, it is a good idea to carry a writing notebook and sketch pad around.” “No, I’m not picking on you, practice does make perfect.” “Sticking to small moments and things you know is smart writing.” I then had a small 9th grade English class work with Lulu on voice and characterization using Alicia Afterimage and an upper school Spanish class spend an 80-minute block asking our author a myriad of thoughtful questions about her profession, works, and views on writing, all in Spanish. The intimacy and level of interaction achieved by working with small groups was priceless.
Lulu’s personable style, her flexibility and ability to work in two languages at any level and with various group sizes made her visit a valuable experience for our students and teachers.
Mario Chioini, Upper School Librarian, American School of Paris, France
I would highly recommend Lulu Delacre as a guest author.... Her Salsa Stories presentation has created such an overflow of interest that we have a long waiting list in our school library and had to order additional books.... The teachers’ responses were overwhelmingly positive about the presentations, and some of them followed up the author visit with activities provided by Lulu. Planning for her visit was easy, and Lulu responded quickly to any requests. The enthusiasm Lulu generated among our students for reading and for the Latin American culture has been one of the many positive results of her visit.
Erin Smith, LMC Specialist, Terrace School, Des Plaines, Illinois
"I can report that your titles from the sessions are always checked out. In fact we have decided to use Salsa Stories as our parent/student book club selection for grades 2-3 and 4-5 when we give the title to families to read together and come to school for a one time breakfast discussion."
Lynn Rohrs, Library Media Specialist, NBCT Drew Model School, Arlington, VA
