The students of Hornell Intermediate School were treated to an inspiring visit on Tuesday, April 1, from award-winning children’s author Kevin Kurtz, a local talent with a passion for exploration. Kurtz captivated students and ignited their enthusiasm for reading, writing, and the fascinating world of nonfiction.

Kurtz, whose accolades speak to his skill as a writer, has led a life rich with diverse experiences, traveling the globe and delving into a wide array of subjects. This real-world exploration profoundly influences his research and the captivating topics he brings to life in his books. From the depths of the vast ocean to the mysteries of outer space, Kurtz wowed students with his storytelling and the intriguing facts woven into his narratives.

Students were thrilled to have the opportunity to take home a signed copy of one of Kurtz’s many published works. The impact of his visit was evident in the students’ enthusiastic responses. One student shared, “I loved how adventurous Kevin is in his real life, and that really shows in his books!” Another student, who chose Kurtz’s popular title “The Big Book of Would You Rather Questions for Kids,” exclaimed, “My family read this at the dinner table last night, and our whole family was laughing up a storm!”

“This was another great opportunity for the students of the Hornell Intermediate School,” said Jordan Hahn, library media specialist at Hornell Intermediate School. “We are thankful to be able to host events like this at our school. The experience of having an author in our building truly allows our students to learn and grow as readers and writers.”