Kathleen I. Tyrell, Superintendent
180 Harborview Road
Hull, MA 02045
For Immediate Release
Friday, May 12, 2017
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Award-Winning Children’s Book Author/Illustrator Bryan Collier Visits Hull High School
HULL — Principal Michael Devine is pleased to announce that award-winning children’s book author/illustrator Bryan Collier visited the high school to speak to students and staff about art, writing, and pursuing one’s dreams.
On April 27, Collier spoke to approximately 100 art students and faculty members, sharing his journey as an illustrator and author of children’s books. Hull High School was able to bring in Collier through funding from the Hull Academic Support Coalition, Inc.
At the start of his presentation, Collier asked students what they thought was easier to read: picture books, graphic novels or novels. When they answered children’s books, Collier began reading from “Uptown,” his story about a little boy who makes his way around his hometown of Harlem, New York City. Students soon realized the hidden complexities weaved throughout the book, which were apparent in his detailed narrative.
“He explained that while children’s books may have less words, it requires skill and patience to convey a message to readers,” said senior Erin Shea. “Mr. Collier gave an empowering speech that really made students think — about reading, writing and their futures. Thank you Mr. Collier for visiting us here at Hull High School, and for inspiring students and teachers alike to pursue our passions and to make art.”
Collier, a native of Pocomoke, Md., honed in on his passion for art when he was 15. He won first place in the Congressional Art Competition, which earned his artwork a spot at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C.
After graduating from Pratt Institute in New York with a bachelor of fine arts, he worked on getting his art published in children’s books for seven years before he landed his first break with “Uptown.” Today, he’s published 32 books, nine of which have earned the Coretta Scott King Awards and four are Caldecott Honors Books.
Collier concluded his presentation by encouraging students to never give up on their dream, no matter how daunting or impractical it may seem.
“You don’t know what barriers you will come across, but you just have to work through it,” Collier said to Hull students.
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