Finally, Ron Smith, Baltimore author of Hoodoo and The Mesmerist, visited WMMS to talk about his new book, Marvel’s Black Panther the Young Prince which tells the story of T’Challa as a young boy. “It was cool that I got to see him speak before the movie,” remarked student Diamond Valentine. Mr. Smith kept students on the edge of their seats with his own story of how the book came to be. “My agent called and asked me if I was sitting down.” Mr. Smith promptly sat down and held his breath. His agent continued. “Marvel Comics called, and they want you to write the young adult story of the Black Panther. You have 30 days.” Mr. Smith devoured Black Panther comic books to understand his protagonist’s background and purpose, and one month later he had a draft. D’Angelo Orr noted that “Mr. Smith worked hard writing the book so students can enjoy it.” Taryn Lewis piped in by saying “hearing his stories inspires other kids to write.” Mr. Smith will return to Windsor Mill in March to work with students.