Story telling is an art form that ignites imaginations and allows them to unlock worlds of intrigue, mystery and adventure. Like story telling, reading is about connecting, especially for young readers. When words connect with young readers they experience light bulb “aha” moments. Author Michael Dahl enjoys creating those moments and connections for readers new to expert.

Dahl fell in love with reading by discovering the origin story of his favorite super heroes. But, the first book he says he connected with was anything pertaining to Greek and Roman mythology.

“I love reading about Gods and heroes,” he said.

Like many readers Dahl thoroughly enjoys mystery. In fact, it all began with what Dahl describes as “a mind-blowing encounter with an Agatha Christie classic in fifth grade.” Dahl says what makes the perfect mystery is nothing too easy, but a story that works in clever clues to help him figure it out. He also likes mysteries written in different settings so he can learn something new. 

Speaking of mystery and intrigue, Dahl’s home is filled with it due to the “spirit” who lives there. “Helen is a helpful spirit,” Dahl said. “If I’m walking down the stairs and I think to myself, ‘I should’ve turned on the lights,’ boom it happens.” How did Dahl come to know Helen? The previous owners informed the house was haunted. “Helen currently resides in the basement, in the former coal room. I’ve seen the shadow of a person walk down the upstairs hallway and into a bedroom while I was alone in the house,” states Dahl’s website, www.michaeldahlwrites.com. 

As the author of over 300 books, Dahl knew he wanted to become a writer in fifth grade. He credits this to a family who read a lot and growing up in a house where he was surrounded by books.

“Reading is one of the most important skills to have. It helps in all lots of life,” Dahl declared. “When you read you can become anything. If you read about it, you can do it!” 

One of the greatest compliments Dahl received came from a Major in the Air Force who has done a number of tours in Afghanistan as a helicopter pilot.

“The Major said his son hated to read until he found my books,” Dahl beamed. “He wrote to thank me for helping his son learn to read and love it.” 

He gained more fans in the St. Clair County area when he stopped by Coosa Valley Elementary School (CVES) to speak with their second, third and fourth grade students. Librarian Christy Minor was thrilled to invite Dahl to share his stories with CVES students.

“Our students were mesmerized by the presentation of one of their favorite authors, Michael Dahl. Mr. Dahl fed their curiosity about how writers work, edit, and publish their ideas. It was a wonderful opportunity for our young readers and writers.” 

The students agreed. Drew Secor said, “He’s really funny and I like the books he writes because they’re really interesting and most of his books relate to his life.”

Jayden Carden said Dahl was relatable and interesting because he told them all about his likes and what he did as a child. Riley Ginn enjoyed the ghost story he told them.

Emphasizing the importance of reading, Dahl encourages young readers to choose something they like. His advice to young readers is, “If you don’t like one book pick up another—don’t stop trying!”