In October, when we found out there was a new Bubba Begonia book being released, the teachers and I were as excited as the students. The best part was when Gerry visited our school not long after the new book was launched. He spent an hour with the students sharing his experiences as a writer -- how he got started, where he gets his ideas, and he talked about the development of the characters, the story lines, and the writing process. He was enthusiastic and kept our 30 active Grade 3 students engaged. He concluded by treating us all to a reading from his new novel,Bubba Begonia and the Bully. Afterwards, students lined up to purchase their own copies. Gerry signed the students' books, patiently answered their questions, and listened to them eagerly share with him their favourite parts of the other books in the series. What an exciting experience for all of us to be so taken with a collection of books and to have the opportunity to actually meet the author! Gerry was a great presenter and so comfortable with the students. We wish we could adopt him as our very own author mentor.