Students in English classes are often required to read books and then test over them. Rarely, however, do they actually get to meet the author of the novel.

Twenty-four students from Sharon Bullard’s senior English class and Advanced Placement class recently had the opportunity to do do just that.

On Friday, Nov. 7, Larry Baker, author of several novels such as “The Flamingo Rising” and “A Good Man,”  met students in the library to discuss his novels and the craft of writing.

Baker was touring Oklahoma and Texas to promote his latest novel, “The Education of Nancy Adams.”

He gave a reading at the University of Oklahoma on Thursday, Nov. 6, and then traveled to Marlow for a second reading before heading to his alma mater, Richland Hills High Schools in Fort Worth.

“Larry and I were graduate assistants at OU, and our two families have stayed close over the years,” Bullard said.

“He was very complimentary of our students and posted some great comments about them on Facebook,” Bullard added.

Bullard’s AP class read “The Flamingo Rising” and watched the Hallmark Hall of Fame film based on the book while her second hour only watched the film.

Senior Nathan Crowson, who was able to experience both genres, said he preferred the novel.

“‘The Flamingo Rising’ is one of my favorite books so far. The book had much more detail than the film did,” Crowson said.

Baker addressed the classes with a great deal of information about writing, giving words of inspiration to his listeners.

“All of us have a story to tell. We do it every day. I just happen to write mine down.”

— author Larry Baker

Senior Ashlyn Slate, who only saw the film version, said she found Baker to be very interesting.

“I was surprised at how dynamic the author was. I assumed he would be some strict, dull man, but he actually was the complete opposite,” Slate said.

Following the presentation, Slate checked out a copy of Baker’s novel and began reading it. Like Crowson, she said she likes it better than the film version.

Slate was not the only student moved by Baker. Senior Austin Strain said he was motivated by what the author  had to say.

“Mr. Baker was a truly inspirational speaker—not only as a writer, but as a professional,” Strain said. “He made me feel excited to start my career and hopefully be as successful as he is in his,” Strain added.

 Jasmin Pérez

MHS exPRESS Writer