By: Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Burlington Local-News.ca
Grade 6 to 8 students and their families gathered at P. L. Robertson Public School in Milton on Feb. 5 for an evening of storytelling, imagination, and reflection during a special Family Literacy Night featuring award-winning Canadian author Lawrence Hill. The event, part of the Halton District School Board’s (HDSB) Black History Month programming, offered students a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of Canada’s most celebrated writers in a moderated discussion centred on identity, belonging, and the power of stories.
Hill, best known for his internationally acclaimed novel The Book of Negroes, spoke with students about his creative process and his latest book, Beatrice and Croc Harry, a novel written for both children and adults. The story follows a young girl who awakens alone in a vast forest with no memory of who she is — not even her name, or that she is Black — and embarks on a journey of self-discovery among animals with distinctly human traits.
HDSB Vice Principal Alexiis Stephen led the conversation, inviting students to step forward and ask their pre-planned questions directly to Hill, who enthusiastically engaged with each one. The discussion sparked curiosity, laughter, and thoughtful reflection, particularly as Hill shared that he wrote Beatrice and Croc Harry during a period of personal grief following his mother’s passing.
“I wrote Beatrice and Croc Harry to cheer myself up,” Hill told the audience. “The most fun part of writing the book was making up silly words and letting my imagination run free.”
Hill explained that the heart of the story is identity development, particularly for young people, symbolized by a girl who must figure out who she is with no one around to guide her. In researching the character, Hill even consulted Black women and Black hairstylists to ask what they would do with their hair if they were stuck in a forest with no products.
“They said avocado,” he shared with a smile. “To hydrate and soften hair.”
Throughout the evening, Hill emphasized the lasting impact of books read in childhood and adolescence. “The books you read when you’re young can stay with you forever,” he said. “Books are like friends for life.”
When asked about the broader role of storytelling, especially in today’s social and political climate, Hill reflected on the unique power of fiction to foster empathy and understanding.
“There’s something special that writers of fiction can do,” Hill said. “We imagine things, we make up glorious lies, and in doing that, we encourage readers to empathize and see the humanity in other people’s struggles. Sometimes invented stories can feel just as real and meaningful as real life.”
He likened storytelling to faith, noting that people often turn to stories for guidance, challenge, and hope during difficult times. “Works of imagination can sit with a reader the same way faith can,” Hill said.
Hill also offered candid advice to aspiring young writers, encouraging them to embrace their personal experiences and persist despite challenges.
Author Lawrence Hill spent time engaging with young audience members and signed their books.
“The more specific, personal, and honest you can be, the better,” he said. “Don’t ever think your world is too small to write about. Sometimes drilling down into the details of your own life is what makes a story feel universal.”
One of the students asked Hill what three items he would take with him if he were stranded in a forest. Hill shared that the three items would be: books, a typewriter, and avocados. He also revealed that he has another book coming out later this year and may write a sequel to Beatrice and Croc Harry.
Following the discussion, Hill stayed to personally sign books for every student and family member who wished to have one signed. Copies of his work were available for purchase at the school’s book fair, giving students the chance to leave the evening with both a signed book and a lasting memory.
The event reflected the Halton District School Board’s broader commitment to inclusive education and meaningful Black History Month programming.
“Black History Month provides an opportunity for HDSB students, staff, and families to truly honour the lives, stories, and lasting contributions of Black Canadians who have shaped the richness of our country,” said HDSB Director of Education Curtis Ennis. “As we honour history and celebrate the present, we lead with kindness and care, creating school communities rooted in humanity, joy and connection, and continue to strive to provide learning environments where all students can be successful and feel a sense of belonging.”
By centring student voices, lived experience and authentic storytelling, the evening at P. L. Robertson offered more than a literary discussion — it created a space where young people could see themselves reflected in stories and feel inspired to tell their own.
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