WEST PLAINS, Mo. – A total of 2,145 area elementary school students learned about what it takes to become a published illustrator Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 during the annual “Meet the Author” event hosted by the University/Community Programs (U/CP) Department at Missouri State University-West Plains.
Students from Couch, Fair View, Glenwood, Junction Hill, Koshkonong, Richards, South Fork, Thayer, West Plains Elementary, West Plains Head Start and Willow Springs came to the West Plains Civic Center to hear noted illustrator Brad Sneed discuss how his childhood impacted his career, university officials said.
Sneed grew up in rural Kansas, where he enjoyed sports, the outdoors and drawing. Growing up in the country, he said, gave him the opportunity to exercise his imagination. He studied illustration at the University of Kansas, where he was able to travel and connect with picture book editors and art directors in New York. He was offered an opportunity to illustrate Grandpa’s Song by Tony Johnston, and has now illustrated more than 20 books. He currently lives near Kansas City, Kan., with his wife and daughter. More information about his work can be found at www.bradsneed.com.
“We appreciate wonderful individuals in the world of children’s literature taking the time to meet with area students and discuss not only books, but how they can be part of the process of creating those books,” said Emily Gibson, coordinator of theater and events for the U/CP Department. “Brad’s illustrations are truly amazing, and we are thrilled to have him as our featured speaker this year.”
To make the annual “Meet the Author” event possible, U/CP officials partner with sponsors CenturyLink and Holiday Inn Express. “Nothing can be accomplished without great support, and we recognize the ongoing contributions of CenturyLink and Holiday Inn Express in helping us continue to bring great programs to West Plains,” Gibson said. “We also would like to thank the participating schools and their outstanding students who help make this event great.”
For more information about the “Meet the Author” event and other activities and events hosted by Missouri State-West Plains’ U/CP Department, call 417-255-7966 or visit www.wp.missouristate.edu/ucp.