Author Brendan Kiely made a return trip to Fairport High School (FHS) last week to speak with students about his writing process and the events that inspired his work.

Brendan Kiely co-wrote the novel All American Boys with Jason Reynolds, which is an optional selection on the FHS ELA curriculum. All American Boys tells the stories of two teens growing up during a time of racial strife and violence, and how their lives come together. The novel was inspired by the personal lived experiences of both Kiely and Reynolds.

Both authors previously visited FHS in October 2016, and Kiely returned in May 2018. The visit last week was Kiely’s third to Fairport. Kiely made three formal presentations to FHS students, and spoke to them in more informal Q and A sessions. 

FHS Library Media Specialist Lisa Ferri says Kiely has many ties to the Fairport and Rochester communities. Two more author visits are planned for the rest of the school year.