NOTE: This story mentions the topic of suicide. For resources and support, contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for additional information.
LANCASTER, S.C. — Students at the Discovery School in Lancaster heard a message of encouragement and speciality from a newly published author’s new book last week.
Author and teacher Pamela Rutherford spoke to students Thursday, April 18, to present her new story “Rasmussen, the Plain Brown Mouse,” with illustrations by Crystle Lineberger.
The book follows the character of Rasmussen, a brown mouse who feels that he has nothing special about him. Eventually, with the help of friends at his school and a snake, Rasmussen is able to find characteristics within himself that make him special.
Rutherford, who teaches sixth grade at Gray Stone Day School in Misenheimer, N.C., says that she’s always been interested in writing due to her love of journaling as a kid. After taking a children’s literature class at Pfeiffer University, the idea for writing a story on speciality came about.
“The reason that this story came about was I’ve always been a person who journaled and wrote short stories and they kind of keep things in perspective for me,” she said.
Rutherford’s story also leaned on the five story elements of plot, character, conflict, theme and setting to help improve students’ knowledge of storytelling. She also taught students the concept of constructive criticism and how feedback can help improve their writing as they progress through grade levels in school.
Most importantly, Rutherford encouraged the kids to have a set of friends who can uplift them, as well as listening to adults who provide compliments frequently.
She cited the rising rates of suicide among young children and from a teacher’s heart, she feels that it’s important kids know that people care about them.
“It’s a message that kids need to know, especially in this world and today’s timing, that everybody is special. We have to encourage each other, we have to grow that, and we have to feed that in them.
“If a book about a mouse can do that, then I hope it contributes to the good,” Rutherford said.
She plans a series of six books that will follow Rasmussen, with books two-five awaiting for a publisher and book six in progress. In the meantime, Rutherford has been visiting schools across the region to discuss her new book, hoping that from a teacher’s heart, students can learn valuable lessons from Rasmussen.
“It’s a way for me to spread the word about being special that doesn’t come from a $12.99 book,” she said.
A paperback edition of “Rasmussen, the Plain Brown Mouse” can be purchased on Amazon for $12.99.
