Richard Peck's Visit to Skokie
March 2002

The Youth Services Department of Skokie Public Library was very pleased to host Richard Peck on March 12, 2002. Mr. Peck is an outstanding author of books for young people, and has received many awards, including the Newbery Award 2001 for A Year Down Yonder. More than two hundred people filled Skokie Public Library’s Petty Auditorium on March 12th to listen to Mr. Peck talk about his books and writing. Students, parents, teachers, and librarians gained new inspiration for the importance of reading for a good education.

Youth Services arranged Mr. Peck’s visit, and shared him with two schools in Skokie, McCracken Middle School and East Prairie School, selected on the basis of essays written about Richard Peck’s books by 7th and 8th grade students. One student, Annie, from the King Lab School, also wrote a winning essay and was awarded a dinner with Mr. Peck.

Seventh and 8th grade students listened intently to Mr. Peck’s stories and to his wise words on the importance of reading. The following photographs provide a glimpse into a very memorable day and evening at Skokie Public Library and two Skokie schools.