Genesee Valley BOCES

This fall, Wolcott Street School in the LeRoy Central School District welcomed award-winning author Veera Hiranandani, known for her deeply moving books that explore young people's emotional journeys. Her visit was part of the Greater Rochester Youth Read initiative, which brings authors into schools to inspire imagination and foster a love for literature among young readers. Hiranandani’s engaging presentation captivated both students and staff, providing an insightful look into the personal experiences that inspire her writing.

Genesee Valley BOCES recently facilitated a memorable author visit, highlighting the impact of its Visiting Author Program through the School Library System. Each year, this program gives schools the unique opportunity to host renowned authors for a full day, connecting students directly with literary creators and nurturing a lifelong appreciation for reading and storytelling.

Hiranandani has authored several widely acclaimed books, including The Whole Story of Half a Girl, which is grounded in her own experiences growing up. She shared with students the story of how this novel came to life, revealing that it took her five years to write. Released in 2012, the book touches on themes of friendship, identity, and resilience—subjects that resonate with young readers navigating the complexities of adolescence.

During her talk, Hiranandani recalled a pivotal moment in her childhood that influenced her writing. When she was ten, she transferred to a new school between fourth and fifth grade, a transition that left her feeling isolated and uncertain. To cope with the loneliness, she turned to books and writing as her refuge, eventually finding friends and her voice through storytelling. This experience shaped her deeply, reinforcing the notion that literature could be a friend, a guide, and an outlet for self-expression. Students listened intently as Hiranandani explained how this transformative period became the foundation for The Whole Story of Half a Girl.

Hiranandani’s educational journey also reflects her commitment to storytelling. She graduated from George Washington University before working in the corporate world, but the office environment was not where her heart lay. After a year, she pivoted to graduate studies in fiction writing at Sarah Lawrence College, an experience that further honed her craft and connected her with the children’s literature community. Her talent and passion led her to Simon & Schuster, where she worked as a children’s book editor, helping other authors develop their stories. Today, she is on the faculty of the Vermont College of Fine Arts, where she teaches fiction writing for young people.

The students of Wolcott Street School were especially excited to hear about Hiranandani’s upcoming projects. She revealed that her first young adult novel, Many Things at Once, is slated for release in 2026. Though she kept the plot under wraps, she hinted at themes that continue to reflect her interest in exploring the inner lives of young people facing challenges and discovering their strengths.

Following her presentation, many students approached her with questions about overcoming writer’s block and balancing creativity with school or work. Hiranandani responded with encouraging words and practical advice.She spoke of her disciplined approach to writing, stressing that while creativity comes from inspiration, it also requires patience and resilience. Her message resonated with students, reminding them that each story has the power to connect, heal, and inspire.

The visit by Veera Hiranandani left a lasting impression on both students and teachers at Wolcott Street School. Her words reinforced the idea that every individual has a story worth telling and that literature can be a powerful tool for understanding oneself and the world. Students and staff left inspired, their curiosity ignited, and perhaps with a renewed love for the magic of storytelling.