Herman Parish and Amelia Bedelia, played by Danielle Quesinberry, dress the chicken.

The author of the popular Amelia Bedelia children’s books, Herman Parish, visited The King’s Academy for a very entertaining and enjoyable assembly.

The invitation was extended by TKA librarian, Stacy Sharp, who was working with other schools in the area to get the well renowned author to East Tennessee.

“When the opportunity was presented for TKA to work with several other schools in the area to bring Herman Parish to the Knoxville area, I was so excited,” said, Sharp. “This is the first time we have been able to bring such a well known author to our school and I hope to be able to bring others in the future.”

“The character Amelia Bedelia is known and loved by many students and parents alike. Mr. Parrish shared the history of the Amelia Bedelia stories from their beginning—with his Aunt Peggy Parrish writing the original stories—to today’s stories of Young Amelia Bedelia. He shared with the students the various steps involved in getting to a final product—from making notes, storyboards, illustrations, etc.”

The first Amelia Bedelia book was written 50 years ago in 1963 by Herman’s aunt, Peggy Parish, the original author.  When she passed away in 1988, Parrish continued writing about the lovable house keeper when he penned his first book “Good Driving, Amelia Bedelia”.

While Parish was telling stories about how real-life tales inspired the misunderstandings that make the Amelia Bedelia books so funny, Amelia Bedelia walked in.

Amelia Bedelia, played by freshman Danielle Quesinberry, walked down the aisle of the auditorium to students and teachers alike dusting and undusting their heads and shoulders. Parish had Amelia Bedelia dress up the chicken.

“The all time favorite is still dress the chicken,” said Parish to the roar of laughter from the audience.  “She is told to dress the chicken, get it ready for dinner. Of course, she ends up putting on these goofy outfits.”

Adds Sharp, “The students especially enjoyed the visit from Amelia Bedelia herself. Thanks to Danielle Quesinberry for stepping in to help. She did a great job!