East Street Teacher Holding Book Signing At Mall

Friday, 14 September 2012 09:56

Scott Starkey, HHS soccer coach, focuses on combating youth bullying

It’s been an exciting year for Hicksville teacher Scott Starkey.

In January, Simon & Schuster published his first novel, How to Beat the Bully Without Really Trying. Geared to middle-grade readers, this humorous “boy meets bully” tale has enjoyed strong appeal with parents and kids alike.  But for Starkey, who teaches fifth-grade at East Street Elementary School and serves as head coach of Hicksville High School’s championship soccer team, the Comets, one of the year’s highlights will come on Saturday, Sept. 22, when he appears at the Broadway Mall to sign and discuss his new novel.

“I’ve done a lot of book events this year, including one in Ohio, but this will be my first here in Hicksville,” he explained, adding, “For the past 17 years I’ve taught in the district, so I’m hoping to see plenty of familiar faces — maybe even some past students. It will give me a chance to reach a new audience while catching up with parents and their children.”

In addition to discussing his novel, Starkey will explore ways to combat bullying along with a second topic he’s passionate about — getting kids to read.

“Today’s children have grown up with computers, TV, video games and smartphones,” observed this father of three. “If a book is going to engage a young person, especially a boy, it better be able to stand up to the competition. That’s why I wrote How to Beat the Bully Without Really Trying. It’s fast-paced, fun, and pre-teens can’t put it down. They’re enjoying reading a full-length novel, and that was my goal from the start.”

Starkey will appear from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 22, as part of the Broadway Mall’s “Back to School Family Fun Day,” which runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and also features free face painting, crafts and other attractions, including Mad Science presenting “Spin, Pop, Boom” at noon. More information is available by visiting www.broadwa ymall.com. Information on How to Beat the Bully Without Really Trying can be found at www.simonand schuster.com.