Student Spotlight: Student Author Starts a New Chapter

While many young writers dream of publishing their first book, few can claim to be a published author before they even start high school. But Visions 8th grade student, known as Allie Kat*, has been writing since she was ten years old and has already proudly published multiple children’s books. 

“My friends moved away a few years ago,” Allie Kat said when asked why she started writing. “[My book characters] were immediately my friends.” 

At the urging of her mother, Allie pursued her passion and turned her first writing project into her first story. As she made the transition into middle school, Allie and her family looked for a flexible choice that would allow her to pursue her writing career. This eventually led her to Visions In Education and credentialed teacher Megan Edens. 

“I really enjoy being her student,” Allie Kat said. 

At Visions, Allie Kat is able to work at her own pace and balance being a successful author and student. She is able to keep writing her own work, in a creative writing exploration class and as part of our Find Your Voice writing class that brings young authors together to publish an anthology. Allie Kat has been published multiple times, both as part of collaborations and in her own standalone projects. Her latest book, Adventures of Baby Matzu, is a children’s book that was inspired by her aunt and uncle’s new baby. 

“I didn’t expect it to become a book,” Allie Kat said. “I just got inspired and started writing.” 

The Next Chapter

Allie Kat was recently featured at the Great Valley BookFest and has a number of projects in the works, including a sequel to Adventures of Baby Matzu. She is looking forward to the challenge of high school and thanks her family and teacher for supporting her in her creative journey. 

*Student’s real name was withheld by request.