“Big Nate” creator and syndicated cartoonist, Lincoln Peirce, visited Gorham Middle School on Dec. 7 to a roar of applause and appreciation. Peirce graciously shared his morning with GMS with two presentations for the entire student body about the craft of cartooning, his evolution in becoming a novelist, and the joy of working in a field that you love. Prior to the event, students participated in two contests to either be able to ask Mr. Peirce a question at the event or to win a copy of a “Big Nate” book to be autographed.

Peirce, a Portland resident, is the creator of “Big Nate,” a comic he started in 1991 that can be seen daily in the Portland Press Herald and other newspapers across the country. The comic strip has spawned a children’s book series, activity books, comic compilations, a musical, and now an animated show on Paramount Plus.

Peirce’s newest series “Max and the Midknights” has also been an instant sensation and tells the tale of a 10-year-old who dreams of becoming a knight.

Students left school inspired and excited. Mr. Peirce is a dynamic presenter and absolutely knows how to connect with kids. In addition to Peirce’s presentation, he included 10-15 minutes of live drawing. From recognizable characters from his comics to the fun of turning a scribble into a sketch and the art of facial expressions, Peirce gave the students of GMS a day they will not soon forget.

Copies of Peirce’s books can be purchased at The Bookworm in Gorham and Print: A Bookstore, located in Portland.

Gorham students and families are anticipating the visit of novelist Jennifer Nielsen to Gorham’s three elementary schools and GMS in April 2023.