Love Creek fifth-graders hold video chat with author Roland Smith

Love Creek Elementary fifth-graders had the opportunity to interact with children’s author Roland Smith via Skype March 4.

Student ambassadors asked Smith questions pertaining to his book, “Storm Runners,” which they recently read in language arts classes.

Students were interested in how he developed the theme and characters of the book, and what kind of research he did. Students also asked him more general questions like “How long does it take to write a book?” and “What did you do before you were a writer?”

Smith spent about an hour answering questions for the students.

The three-part “Storm Runners” series follows main character Chase Masters and his father, storm runners who race across the country chasing hurricanes, tornados and floods. When the hurricane of the century hits, Chase is tested in a number of ways.

Each book keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and is full of action and adventures.

Born and raised in Portland, Ore., Smith received his first writing utensil, an old manual typewriter, when he was just 5 years old.