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Angelica Harris, author of five books, paid a recent visit to John Adams High School, Ozone Park, to talk with students about her passion for writing and how important it is to paint a clear picture filled with details when they’re engaged in putting words to their papers. The creator of the sci-fi book trilogy, “Excalibur,” and her own memoir, “Living with Rage — A Quest for Solace,” truly appreciates the idea that readers can enter the worlds and characters she describes, from King Arthur, a royal monarch, and Merlin, a legendary Celtic sorcerer, to aspects of her own life. With her memoir, Ms. Harris writes about her childhood, and the time when she was sexually abused. Here, she was able to both express much of the pain and retell some of the haunting memories during that period. For a long time, Ms. Harris remained silent about the tragic experiences. However, at a special event in Washington, where she gave a speech in front of 300 people to speak about her personal struggles with different forms of abuse, she finally decided to write her memoir. With the book, she was able to and continues to inspire many individuals. Her story has touched readers from Queens, New York all the way to Saudi Arabia. During her visit, she spoke to students about the writing career she is devoted to – and where it all began. Ms. Harris talked about one family
Queens native Angelica Harris talks writing
Author and Queens resident Angelica Harris, left, came to John Adams to talk to students about something she truly enjoys – writing. Ms. Harris is also a strong advocate for victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence. Campus school news reporters Selena Arreola and Julie Torres had the wonderful opportunity to interview Ms. Harris at the end of her visit. (PHOTO BY ROB TROTTA) member whom she holds close to her heart, her father, a World War II veteran who stood as a role model for her to look up to. Her father inspired her to express her feelings with words, and that action has saved her.
“I wear my father’s ring proudly,” she stated. “It was his love and advice that got me to open up and tell my story.” Students were intrigued by Ms. Harris’ sincerity and creativity. For some of the classes,
she asked students to invent a plot and describe a character who would play a significant role in a fictional story. Many came up with different and unique features of their made-up character and what conflict that character was facing. Seeing the students’ enthusiasm with the task, Ms. Harris smiled and said, “See, writing is, and can be, fun.” “I was happy to be here,” she said, reflecting on her day at John Adams HS. “It was an amazing experience, and I hope to come back.” Ms. Harris, a Glendale resident, has also created a nonprofit crisis center for victims of abuse right here in our borough, called the Unicorn Project—Raven’s Hope. In addition, she also runs the Excalibur Reading Program, which teaches children with special needs, along with their families, how effectively writing can be used as a tool to allow them to express their emotions and thoughts. Ms. Harris, who is married and has two children, also has acting experience. But, more admirably, she has tremendous character. Angelica Harris accepts speaking engagements, guest blogging and other ventures that allow her to work with victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. “Together,” she believes, “we can all become conquerors.” Written by John Adams students Selena Arreola and Julie Torres.
Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 9, 2014
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