Community Magazine January 2012

Shaare Torah Meets Author Ever had an idea for a story, or wanted to write a book? Mr. David Adler, a former math teacher, discovered that he had a talent for writing stories for children. This talent, he found, was actually so strong that it outweighed his desire to teach math. Using his professional pedagogic skills and understanding of the young elementary aged student, he started to write and publish, prolifically. On Monday, December 5th, the celebrated author was invited to speak and share his wealth of delightful tales with the students of Yeshivat Shaare Torah. The 2nd-5th graders were ushered into the special assembly bearing stickers on their shirts welcoming Mr. David A. Adler. They were excited, but still couldn’t help wondering, would this really be interesting? What could he possibly tell them? Mr. Adler regaled the boys with stories and experiences, and even sharing the magic formula for creating his famous Cam Jansen Mystery Series. The first rule he uses is choosing to write about someone he knows well who has prominent characteristic. It sounds simple, but Mr. Adler has a special gift. He changes the name, tweaks the situation, adds more characters, and, within a relatively short time, has another best seller on the market. The author of the Cam Jansen series geared for very young readers also has penned a series of picture biographies of famous people. The students were given a little taste of his writing methodology and had the opportunity to ask questions and have their books signed. All together, Mr. Adler has published over 200 books and he is a highly sought-after speaker. The students were inspired and engaged as they listened attentively to their guest. After the presentation at the Boys’ Elementary, Mr. Adler went to speak at the Shaare Torah Girls Elementary School. Mr. Adler’s visit is just one feature of Yeshivat Shaare Torah’s comprehensive Literary Program, which aims to develop the students’ literary skills and foster an affinity for reading. Literary Series hosts renowned author of the Cam Jansen series and other works. Boys from Shaare Torah Elementary School listening intently to the presentation. PNINA SOUID DAVID ADLER 58 Community magazine