In the spring of 2022, when Stephen Kozan, author and founder of ReadyAimWrite Kids, visited Salisbury Elementary School, he gave an assembly on the writing process and talked about persevering toward goals. As a child, the Harrisburg resident was told it was not realistic to pursue becoming a writer, so when Kozan became one, he started a publishing company to help students become authors. Kozan brought artist Jain Cable along to help explain the illustration process.

During the assembly at Salisbury, Kozan gave the students an opportunity to do some creative writing. "(Kozan) asked them to do something original," explained Kayley Gates, one of the teachers who helped bring Kozan to the school. "He was looking for a story summary."

The story summary that most interested Kozan that day was written by Evan Johnston, who outlined the adventures of a worm who was tasked with helping a president to arrive safely in Worm Mania. "There were Crants in the way," said Johnston of the villainous agency made up of crows and ants that sought to interrupt the worm on his mission. Over the summer, Johnston filled in the details of his outline, corresponding electronically with Kozan to develop the 29-page chapter book titled "The Secret Mission of Billy Joe." Johnston smiled when he discussed receiving copies of the book at his home just before Christmas.

To celebrate Johnston's work being published, a launch party is planned at the school on Wednesday, March 8, from 6 to 7 p.m. That same week is book fair week at the school, and Kozan will speak to students. Johnston will also share his book with the younger grades, possibly through a video recording. Pequea Valley School District (PVSD) has purchased copies of Johnston's books for sixth-grade students and for each district library as well. Johnston will be recognized for his accomplishment at the March PVSD board meeting.

Although Johnston noted that being chosen to write a book was fun, he is not completely comfortable with his newfound fame. "He likes to stay out of the spotlight," said Gates. Johnston noted that his favorite activity is playing soccer. He is also known to enjoy drawing and creating character helmets from cardboard.

Readers who would like to learn more about ReadyAimWrite Kids or purchase Johnston's book may do so at https://kidswritestories.net.