Author DJ MacHale gives second presentation at Mira Costa library

By Yuka Noda
Staff Writer

Donald James MacHale, the New York Times best seller and author of the “Pendragon” series, visited the Mira Costa library on Dec. 5 to promote his brand new trilogy, “Sylo.”

In addition to his new trilogy, he promoted its sequel, “Storm,” which will be published next spring. MacHale gave his presentation during third, fourth and fifth period.

“I really enjoyed the presentation,” English teacher David Piorek said. “He was a great speaker for high school students, and he kept them engaged.”
MacHale also visited Costa two years ago in the spring of 2011 to promote his book, “The Black.”

“His visit in 2011 was a big success,” teacher-librarian Jane Lofton said. “He’s also a local Manhattan Beach resident and parent, so I thought it would be nice for the students to meet a local author.”

MacHale read chapter one of his book, “Sylo.” He also talked about the time he spent directing and producing films.

“It was very similar to the last time MacHale spoke at Costa,” senior Sidney Ascher said. “Except this time, MacHale actually read an excerpt from his book, which I really enjoyed. I had already read the book, but it’s a completely different experience hearing the author read it out loud.”

In his presentation, MacHale chose to introduce the audience to his writing and editing process, while talking about his inspiration to became a writer. He originally had a film idea that was too expensive to produce, so the author decided to write a book instead, which became the acclaimed the “Pendragon” series.

“Besides introducing my book, I wanted to de-mystify the creative process so kids can see that if I can do it, anyone can,” MacHale said. “I really wanted to encourage them to tap into their own creativity.”

Lofton is already planning future author visits, including a presentation from Len Vlahos, the author of “The Scar Boy,” at the end of January.

“We were very fortunate to have MacHale visit,” Lofton said. “It’s not always easy to get an author to come and visit our school, and we are looking forward to having Vlahos here to talk about his moving book about a young boy who is discriminated against.”