Elementary students throughout Kirkwood schools enjoyed a visit from author Kelly Starling Lyons. During her visits, Starling-Lyons shared advice for young writers including to “write the story only you can tell” and the importance of representation in books. The visits were funded through a combination of PTO support, book fair proceeds and school budgets.

Staling-Lyons has written more than 30 books for children. Her mission is to center Black heroes, celebrate family, friendship, & heritage, and show all kids the stories they hold inside. Her award winning titles include Ellen's Broom, Sing a Song: How “Lift Every Voice and Sing” Inspired Generations, Going Down Home with Daddy and Ty’s Travels: Zip, Zoom!. Additionally, she is a founding member of the Brown Bookshelf, which is designed to push awareness of the myriad Black voices writing for young readers.