Did you know that the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival, the Chappaqua Central School District and the Chappaqua PTA have partnered to bring award winning author Jarrett Krosoczka to speak to eighth and ninth graders at Bell and Seven Bridges Middle Schools and Horace Greeley High School on Tuesday, November 11? Krosoczka is known for his humorous children’s books — such as the “Lunch Lady” graphic novel series — but his latest book, “Hey, Kiddo,” is different. In it he tells his own story of growing up with addiction in the family and finding the art that helped him to survive. 

Jarrett Krosoczka’s graphic novel memoir beautifully illustrates the importance of having a supportive family, even if it is unconventional, connections with friends and an activity that provides a healthy outlet and opportunities. Through his novel the reader sees multiple clear examples  of “protective factors” which allowed young Jarrett to not only survive but thrive despite some challenging circumstances. His story is full of struggles, but also full of great resilience and love.

At Horace Greeley, Student Assistance Counselor Carolyn D’Agostino has been visiting ninth grade english and visual dynamics classes to speak with students about the book and the coping skills young Jarrett developed. Ninth grade english classes have been reading the graphic novel, and ninth grade visual dynamic students have been watching his TED Talk “How a Boy Became an Artist.” We asked Carolyn to share some conversation starters for parents who want to discuss Mr. Krosoczka’s visit and Hey Kiddo with their students:

• Did you read the graphic novel Hey Kiddo in English?
• Did you also see the TED Talk in art class?
• What were some of Jarrett’s struggles growing up?
• Without a mom and dad in the picture who were Jarrett’s sources of support?
• What were the ways he coped with his struggles?
• What are some other ways that kids your age cope with difficult situations?
• Why do you think Jarrett shared this personal information in his TED Talk and book?
• If one of your friends was struggling with a parent with an alcohol or drug problem, how do you think you could best support them?
• Was there anything in the assembly that surprised you or was different from the book or TED Talk?

If you want to learn more about Jarrett Krosoczka and Hey Kiddo, we recommend the PBS Connecting Point video “Jarrett Krosoczka on Hey Kiddo” in addition to his TED Talk. For more information about how protective factors can play an important role in your own child’s life, visit our website page “Protective Factors and Their Role in Alcohol and Other Drug Use.”