Author Susan Hood Visits Todd Elementary

From Syntax:

Kindergartners and first-graders at Todd Elementary School learned about frog metamorphosis and a critically endangered salamander when children’s book author Susan Hood paid a visit to their school to read from two of her books, “Leaps and Bounce” and “Spike, the Mixed Up Monster.”

Hood, who used to work at “Nick Jr. Magazine,” Sesame Workshop, Scholastic and “Instructor Magazine,” and written for numerous educational publications before launching her children’s book writing career, told the students about the inspirations behind her books.

“I saw a photograph of [the axolotl, a real endangered salamander],” Hood said about her “Spike” character. “To me, he looked like a Muppet and I had to research what this animal was. I just wanted to use him as a character for a friendship story, but the more I found out about him, the more amazing the real animal was. He is critically endangered and can grow any body part.”

In addition to reading from her books and garnering laughs, Hood also answered questions from students about the axolotl who can be found exclusively in the lake complex of Xochimilco in Mexico. She urged students to pursue their interests and make discoveries on their own.

“How fun it can be to read and find out new things,” she said. “I hope to impart that curiosity in students.”

Hood also shared with the students her brand new book, “Ada's Violin,” which tells the true story of a group of children, who live in a landfill in Paraguay, but tour the world and perform with instruments made out of recycled materials.

"It's exciting to see the enthusiasm for learning and reading generated by author visits,” teacher librarian Tara Phethan said. “Because of Susan Hood's visit, they know about the critically endangered Mexican axolotl, a fascinating amphibian."

The event was made possible through the support of the PTA.

Photo Captions: Children’s book author Susan Hood delighted Todd Elementary School students in Briarcliff Manor with her interesting books and storytelling during a recent visit with kindergarteners and first-graders.