My Iowa book tour has been met with enthusiasm and my hosts at schools have welcomed me with open arms. It is a good feeling to know that Iowa communities appreciate your sacrifice and understand the importance of your literacy cause.

And yet, unfortunately, when I walked into Maple Grove - a new school with an impressive gym and state-of-the-art classrooms I felt like a stranger. Every school has its own unique culture and yet most teachers/administrators are open to new ideas/concepts - especially when the ideas involve inspiring children to live out their dreams. Initially, the assembly environment was subdued. I wasn't sure if I was going to come across with a little too much energy. But I threw caution to the wind and charged ahead for the students. What started as a cool shade of blue turned medium warm to red hot by the time I spoke to grades 3-5. I gave those students what I consider one of my most riveting performances and they did respond with enthusiasm. I even received some quiet compliments from teachers. I can't always predict how I am going to be perceived by the school's administration but what I will promise is to give all children the best I have to offer.

My journey to the middle school was warm and bright. Susan Wouters greeted me right as I entered the front door. I had met Susan at Applebee's with Becky Pashek and just like Mrs. Pashek, Susan Wouters is a passionate, gifted teacher who has a quiet composure about her that is appealing to middle school students. I then met Jill Urich, the school's principal. Mrs. Urich doesn't come off as an administrator who is only interested in state testing results. She is passionate and committed to helping students during an especially difficult time in their lives. Mrs. Urich offered me not only respect but was also a good listener - taking three hours out of her busy schedule to make me feel comfortable in front of her gifted students. We also reached out to problem behavior students who became engaged in the "Do-over" game high school students enjoy playing.

I was offered many compliments regarding the book and 100 students lined up and waited patiently for me to autograph their books. I understand the importance and need for strong guidance but what I have learned about children is that you do have to offer them certain freedoms so they can make mistakes. When we reason with students - classroom rules/school policies stop becoming "our" rules. The best learning environment is one where children respect the rights of their fellow classmates' opinions so they can start becoming involved citizens of a cultural diverse nation. Waukee Middle School teachers understand these important teaching principles and why I believe I was greeted with such enthusiasm by its students.