OVMS hosts Read-n-Feed event

The excitement was palpable at Owen Valley Middle School (OVMS) prior to Fall Break as students and staff came together for a Read-n-Feed event featuring renowned author Michael Spradlin.

Known for his best-selling novels and Edgar Award nominations, Spradlin captivated the hearts and minds of both middle schoolers and elementary students alike during this immersive celebration of literature.

From the moment students entered the school, they were greeted with an extraordinary transformation that transported them straight into the world of Spradlin's gripping novel, Prisoner of War.

Inspired by the book, dedicated OVMS staff members, including teacher Brittany VanHook and retired Media Specialists Darla Staley and Myrna Fields, worked tirelessly to create an engaging atmosphere. Students could wander through a carefully recreated scene from the novel, allowing them to step directly into the pages of the story.

The student who grew up in a small Michigan town, brought with him not only a wealth of storytelling experience but also an infectious enthusiasm for writing. Spradlin shared invaluable tips on becoming a successful author, encouraging students to tap into their imaginations and dream big. His anecdotes, infused with humor, made writing feel accessible and fun, sparking conversations among students about their own writing aspirations.

The Read-n-Feed event was not just about reading; it was a full-fledged festival of creativity and collaboration.

Students participated in engaging discussions led by teachers and community members, diving deep into the themes of Prisoner of War and exploring its rich narrative.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as students shared their thoughts and reflections, showcasing the power of literature to connect minds and hearts.

Adding to the day's festivities, a custom board game designed around key points from the book, created by student teams in teams to strategize and compete, reinforcing their understanding of the novel while having a blast. The laughter and camaraderie were infectious, and Spradlin cheered for each other and celebrated their newfound knowledge.

A highlight of the day were the delicious snacks inspired by Prisoner of War, carefully crafted by the OVMS team. Students munched on treats that added a tasty twist to their reading adventure, further enhancing the immersive experience.

A special shout-out goes to the OVMS YES Lab Entrepreneurs for their fantastic dog tags and stickers, as well as Patriot Manufacturing for the custom t-shirts, which served as exciting door prizes. These contributions added to the festive atmosphere, ensuring that every student felt part of something truly special.

The commitment of OVMS staff was evident, particularly Staley flying in all the way from Ft. Myers, Florida to make this event unforgettable. Her dedication, alongside the efforts of VanHook and Fields, showcased the heart and soul of the OVMS staff, where fostering a love for reading is paramount.

As the day wrapped up, it was clear that the Read-n-Feed event was not just a celebration of a book; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the boundless potential of young minds.

With memories of laughter, learning, and inspiration, students left the event eagerly anticipating their next reading adventure, forever grateful for the magic that Michael Spradlin and the OVMS team brought to their school.