Author: Good books sing for readers

SANDPOINT — When it comes to reading, an effective story can strike the heart as easily as the catchiest song.

Lake Pend Oreille High School students received that message loud and clear Friday morning when Canadian writer Sigmund Brouwer, the author of 19 novels and several young adult series, dropped by the school to lead an assembly. As a part of Brouwer’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Literacy initiative, the author linked great storytelling to the same dynamic that fuels timeless music.

“I love words, but that’s not necessarily what makes a book good,” Brouwer said. “There’s a big difference between writing and storytelling.”

To illustrate that concept, Brouwer played several songs throughout the assembly. Like a good song, a story needs to reach its audience under the right circumstances in order to be well-received. After all, the kind of song that plays at a sporting event might raise eyebrows when used for the first dance at a wedding.

“You need to find the right story for the right audience for the right moment for the right reaction,” Brouwer said.

Finding that voice takes a little practice. The most important two ingredients to accomplish that, according to Brouwer, are reading and writing as much as possible.

It’s an effort worth undertaking. Brouwer said the rewards from diligent practice. For one thing, a steady intake of books and output of writing projects simply make one a better communicator. Since communication is an invaluable skill in most professional jobs, it simply makes practical sense to nurture that ability even if a career as an author isn’t in the plans.

Beyond that, however, reading offers plenty of reward in itself. By picking up a good book, a reader is exposed to new people, places and concepts they never would have otherwise encountered.

“I get to be this character for 250 pages,” Brouwer said. “For 250 pages, I get to pretend I’m a great musician.”

Brouwer’s visit to Lake Pend Oreille High School is part of an ongoing effort by school associate Sandy Lange to bring in working writers for assemblies. Previous efforts have brought in young adult authors like Chris Crutcher and Terry Trueman. Lange hopes to continue their success with future guests.

“Sandy helps get these kids hooked on story, and when that happens, reading naturally follows,” Brouwer said.