Visiting Author program
The Visiting Author Program provides Gordon students the unique experience of delving into the writer’s craft by working with nationally recognized authors and illustrators. It is supported by the Karla Harry Visiting Author Fund, which was established in 2006 in memory of Karla Harry, Gordon’s beloved librarian and adored community member. This fund was initially endowed by Almon, Suzanne, Stephen, and Sara Hall. Gifts from Karla’s friends and family have expanded its mission, and this permanent fund has become a vital part of the school’s library program and literature curriculum.
2007 Visiting Author Kimberly Willis Holt
2009 Visiting Author Marilyn Nelson
2010 Visiting Author Julia Alvarez
2011 Visiting Author April Pulley Sayre
2012 Visiting Author Joseph Bruchac
2013 Visiting Author Doreen Rappaport
2014 Visiting Author Andrea Davis Pinkney
2015 Visiting Author James Howe
2016 Visiting Authors Robin Page and Steve Jenkins
2017 Visiting Author Nikki Grimes
2018 Visiting Author Kwame Alexander
2019 Visiting Author Monica Brown
2020 Visiting Author Grace Lin
2021 Visiting Author and Illustrator Kwame Mbalia and Eric Wilkerson
Kyle Lukoff is a children’s book author, school librarian, and former bookseller.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Kyle worked at five bookstores, in four libraries, for three schools, as two genders, through one intersection: people, and books.
Kyle is most known for his Stonewall award-winning When Aidan Became a Brother, which is a heartwarming book that resonates with transgender children, reassures any child concerned about becoming an older sibling, and celebrates the many transitions a family can experience.
Kyle’s Awake, Asleep is a rhythmic, meditative read-aloud about the extraordinary beauty found in babies' and toddlers' everyday moments.