GMSD Welcomes Author-Illustrator Greg Pizzoli to Elementary Schools

Students across GMSD’s elementary schools had a special visitor this week as author and illustrator Greg Pizzoli spent the day connecting with young readers and bringing stories to life.

The visit was the result of a collaborative effort among the district’s librarians, who work together each year to select an author that will best engage students. This year, the team intentionally chose an illustrator-author whose work would resonate with younger readers.

“We wanted someone who would really connect with our younger students,” said Jennifer Mock, librarian at Forest Hill Elementary and the district’s lead librarian. “It’s such a memorable experience for them. It becomes a core memory they carry with them.”

Pizzoli, known for both writing and illustrating his books, was a natural fit. His work, including award-winning early reader titles, has been a favorite among students across the district.

At Dogwood Elementary, librarian Hilary McIntyre said the selection process starts with what students are already loving.

“I walk my shelves and look at books that are getting a lot of traction,” McIntyre said. “Then I make a list and reach out to those authors. His books are ones our students are already excited about.”

In the weeks leading up to the visit, students were introduced to Pizzoli’s work through read-alouds, lessons, and displays in the library. By the time he arrived, many students were already familiar with his stories and illustrations.

“We’ve been reading his books since January,” Mock said. “They know who he is, and they’re really excited to see him in person.”

The event focused on pre-kindergarten through second grade students, who gathered to hear from Pizzoli, watch him draw and learn more about the creative process behind his books. For many students, it was their first time meeting an author.

“We always start by asking, ‘Have you ever met anyone famous?’” McIntyre said. “That really gets them thinking and builds excitement for what they’re about to experience.”

Beyond the excitement of the visit, librarians say events like this have a lasting impact. After a previous author visit, Mock saw a surge in students interested in writing their own books, even creating a student author section in the library to showcase their work.

“It introduces them to new books and helps them realize they can do something like that, too,” she said.

From shaking hands with an author to watching a story come to life through illustration, the day offered more than just a break from routine. It was an opportunity to inspire creativity, build confidence and spark a deeper love for reading among GMSD’s youngest learners.