Every year, Antioch Community High School  invites authors, poets, improv groups and musical talent to perform and talk to students during their english classes. The week serves as a nice break from reality for students after returning from spring break.

Andrew Smith joined ACHS students this Tuesday, April 3rd to share his story and give insight on being a author. Smith has written several successful books including: Grasshopper  Jungle, Winger, and The Alex Crow. Smith told students about the backstories of some of his novels, as well as the struggles he has faced while being an author and teacher at the same time. He told students about bosses he had that discouraged his writing while he was also teaching, and how he persevered through it.

“I like how much expertise he had to share with the students and how relatable and engaging he was,” junior AnLi Butler.

Smith studied political science, journalism and literature in college. He has written several short stories, articles, and award-winning novels. He lives in southern california, but he also enjoys to travel around the world. Smith is a successful author but he continues to teach because he enjoys making an impact in young writers and students.