Grade 5: Author Discusses Book via Skype
This week, fifth graders shared a discussion with Jeanne Duprau, best known as the author of The City of Ember series. After English teacher Kimm Lucas contacted her by email, Duprau, who lives in California, agreed to visit with the students via Skype.
This week, fifth graders shared a discussion with Jeanne Duprau, best known as the author of The City of Ember series. After English teacher Kimm Lucas contacted her by email, Duprau, who lives in California, agreed to visit with the students via Skype.
"My students love The City of Ember and beg for quiet time to read every day," Kimm says. "It's a privilege to talk to a writing professional about her creative process and to get insight directly from her about the story."
Students prepared questions ahead of time, which were moderated by their teacher.
What message were you trying to send when you wrote The City of Ember?
I didn't start out to send a message about anything. I wanted to write a story about a dark underground city and the people who lived there. As I went along, I discovered messages like "Take care of the planet" and others, but it was not my intention at the start.
Why did you make the Mayor so greedy?
Every story needs a bad guy who causes trouble or the story isn't very interesting. The Mayor is scared because he knows what's happening to the city but he uses his power selfishly. He doesn't have the best interest of the people.
How did you make the end of the story so interesting?
The end is a very important part, and I wanted it to be thrilling when the characters emerge for the first time and see the world outside. When you write fiction, it's important to first see what you're writing in your mind; picture it and write it as you imagine.
Why was the movie different from the book?
Movie makers do things their own way. They left some things out and put other things in, like the giant mole. Also, they pronounced the main character's name wrong. I didn't have a lot of say in making the screenplay.
What is your favorite thing about being a writer?
I find it extremely satisfying to work hard at something and have it turn out well. I also like, of course, when people read my books and like them.
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Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
