Love of reading sparks creativity in writer

Kevin Maningas is a fifth-grader at Trentwood Elementary. His name has a nice ring to it and, if he reaches his goal, would look good in bold print on the cover of a science fiction novel.

Kevin’s teacher, Bruce Jordan, recognized Kevin’s talent for writing, “I love good writing, and it’s exciting to see how much it means to Kevin,” he said.

Kevin, 10, is a good student and has been in Trentwood’s gifted program since the third grade. He has no problem with the “smart” label, which at times can be daunting. “He’s mature enough to handle that label,” said Jordan.

Kevin credits his love of reading. “I am a good writer and relate well to my audience because of my love for reading. I have been a voracious reader since age 6 and my mom used to have trouble finding books for me because I read several a week. Reading has given me a good imagination for writing essays.”

Kevin doesn’t consider writing a gift, just something he loves and is good at. Most of his writing is done at school. His persuasive and narrative essays hint at his ability to capture a reader’s attention… “It was a dark, cloudless night. All was still and peaceful. The moon shone as bright as a spotlight in a theater. Around it were tiny pinpoints of light that twinkled every so often. … Suddenly, about 20 little orange and red dots appeared all over the field behind my house…” or “Today I’m going to tell you about a moment in my life that scared me and broke the bubble of supreme safety around all of my family and friends. …”

“Whenever we start a new writing assignment,” said Jordan, “I see him already with the wheels turning.” His imagination is sure to keep growing and perhaps one day find its way onto bookstore shelves.

Kevin also loves to play violin, basketball, baseball and enjoys camping, video games, brainteasers and attends AWANA, a youth ministry.