Longfellow Elementary School students K-5 and staff recently had the opportunity to have author visits with Maryann Cocca-Leffler this month. The award-winning author lives in Portland and has written and illustrated more than 70 children’s books. Many of her stories are inspired by people and events in her own life.

In kindergarten and first grade, students were introduced to “The Power of Yet,” a growth mindset picture book. Grades 2 and 3 were introduced to “Janine,” a picture book that features Maryann’s daughter, who has a disability, and teaches readers several lessons, including:
*Love  who  you  are!
*Stand up  for  yourself.
*Stand up  for  others.*Not  everyone  is  going  to  be  your friend. (And  that’s  okay)

In grades 4 and 5, Maryann Cocca-Leffler shared her newest book “We Want to Go to School!” This narrative nonfiction book, which she co-wrote with her daughter Janine Leffler, introduces readers young and old to the landmark 1972 case of Mills vs. Board of Education.

That case led to laws that ensure children with disabilities receive a free public education. Readers learn about the facts and the people that helped to public schools become more inclusive.

Funding for the author visit was provided by the Longfellow PTO.