After a recent visit to HISD’s South Early College High School, author Shaytee Gadson has announced plans for his second book inspired by students he met during his visit.   

Gadson was invited to speak during South Early’s student-created Literacy Day, where he discussed his acclaimed memoir “Hallelujah! in Hollywood: A True Hollywood Story.” During the visit, each student received an autographed copy of the book and spent the day with Gadson discussing the book’s literary elements. 

“A profound love of literacy saved my life — it gave me my voice in this world,” Gadson said. “I want to do everything in my power to ensure that African-American and Latino children, the most marginalized, underserved and maligned demographic groups in America’s schools, have an opportunity to express themselves.  

Gadson’s second book will focus on the issues that plague teens today. The book will include original short stories from some of the students he met during his Literacy Day visit.  

In addition, Gadson held his #StudentsSoLit writing contest. Freshman Keyron Williams was announced the winner of the contest and will be mentored by Gadson while writing his own literary piece.  

For more information visit www.hallelujahinhollywood.com.