Milton fourth-grader authors graphic novel

Combining his love of reading with inspiration from Milton Elementary house spirit mascots, fourth-grader Connor Kremkau has written and illustrated his first graphic novel, “The Five Houses War.”

Similar to a comic book style of writing, the graphic novel showcases a series of images with character dialogue but is considered a longer narrative than that of a short, sequential story in a comic strip.

Written and illustrated entirely by Connor, the story features the animals that represent Milton Elementary’s five houses, each symbolizing one of the school’s core values: kindness, perseverance, creativity, safety and responsibility. During the last academic year, students collaborated to select these animals through a school-wide vote, creating a foundation of community and pride that now carries into Connor’s story.

In “The Five Houses War,” Beaver (House of Creativity) hears a strange noise and confides in Turtle (House of Perseverance), who doubts his claim. Turtle then visits Dalmatian (House of Safety), and since Dalmatian didn’t hear the noise either, he too doubts Beaver. As the mystery spreads, Beaver finds allies in Goose (House of Kindness) and Tiger (House of Responsibility). The three are on their way to Beaver’s log cabin when they are ambushed by Turtle and Dalmatian, leading to a misunderstanding and ultimately, an action-packed “house war.” The conflict resolves when the characters discover the noise was caused by the construction of a new underwater home near Turtle’s pond, setting up the introduction of a new character in an upcoming sequel.

“The book has a lot of action,” said Connor. “I hope to write more stories that include some of the other animals that weren’t chosen to represent the houses last year.”

“We were incredibly impressed that Connor took the initiative to create such a unique story and connect it to our school’s house system,” said Jason Scott, Milton Elementary assistant principal. “He wrote and illustrated this book on his own time, applying concepts he’s learned both in the classroom and through his own love of reading.”

Connor’s work has not only inspired his classmates, but also highlights the creativity and leadership nurtured within Milton Elementary’s supportive learning community.