Capture It: October Sky Theme by Ann Haywood Leal

It arrives for me every year, without fail, with the October sky.   With an electric automaticity, my hands reach for it on the shelf.  I can't help myself.  I have to read it.  And it has to be out loud for others to hear.

I'm not sure why it happens in October of every year, but I've decided it must be due to a spell.  It's book magic--the kind of overwhelming true-believer spell that sweeps you up in its gentle, but firm grip.  If you are reading this, chances are you've had it happen to you-- perhaps more than once.

I will start today.  It will be after lunch recess when tummies are full and the afternoon heaviness is starting to overtake their limbs.  But as soon as I read the first line, their eyelids will snap open.  Because they're about to meet him.  Charlie.  All genuine story believers know in their hearts that they could be Charlie.  Their full stomachs start to growl as they feel Charlie's hunger.  They shiver as Charlie tromps through the early snow.  Tears have fallen on desks with Charlie's disappointments.  

An audible gasp goes up to the October sky as the flash of golden ticket is glimpsed...my favorite part...soon to be their favorite.

Find your magic.  All you have to do is open the book and it will arrive without any bidding.