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Reviewed by Mary McLaughlin, Ma-TESOL; M.S. SpEd
A Newville, Pennsylvania English teacher has finally realized her dream to be published. Sherri Maret has taught English for 20 years in Chambersburg, Shippensburg and Cumberland Valley schools. Despite her love of teaching, Maret has always had a desire to write children’s books.
Maret didn’t let her busy life of teaching and being the school library media specialist stop her from finding time to write her book. Her first book, “Help Me!” was released in April, 2016. “Help Me!” is a story about a woman’s exploits in Africa after she decides to visit the country. Her love of animals takes her on unexpected adventures.
A second book is already scheduled to be released in August, 2016. The new book, “The Gingerbread Man’s School Adventure,” was originally written for kindergarten teachers at James Burd Elementary School in Shippensburg. After completing the book, Maret decided to tweak it to make it appropriate as a back-to-school book.
“The Gingerbread Man’s School Adventure,” is about a gingerbread man who is scared he will be eaten and ends up seeking help at an elementary school. Maret’s website, www.sherrimaret.com includes a variety of follow-up activities to the book for teacher’s to use in class. Maret’s many years of teaching and writing curriculums allowed her to turn the book into an educational tool. She says her books give children an active role in the story.
The newly published author collaborated with two of her high school students to handle the illustrations for both of her books. “I wish I could draw but I don’t have the talent,” said Maret. Emily McMichael and Noelle Zeigler, both graduates of Shippensburg Area Senior High School stepped in and helped make both books possible. Maret and Zeigler have since been busy promoting the new book at eight area schools.