Children’s book author and illustrator Peter Catalanotto recently visited six Allegany County elementary schools to present to students in Kindergarten through Grade 5. Students were led on a creative journey through the book making process as Mr. Catalanotto shared his steps to turn inspiration into ideas. He challenged students to always ask “what if” and to connect real life to imagination to further inspire them as writers. According to this author/illustrator “imagination is everything” and trying new things is the way to find your best ideas.

Students were also fascinated to learn tips and techniques that they can use to create their own illustrations for stories. They saw drawings come to life as common shapes and simple shading transformed into works of art.

Some of Catalanotto’s works include Monkey and Robot, Ivan the Terrier, Emily’s Art, and his personal favorite, The Painter. 

This special experience was made possible through the generosity of the Children’s Literature Centre at Frostburg State University. ACPS would like to thank the Literature Centre for their continued support for the students in Allegany County and for promoting a love of reading through children’s literature.