Author Gary Paulsen made a rare appearance at the University of Tennessee’s University Center Auditorium on March 2, 2010.  Paulsen has written numerous books, including his best known book “Hatchet”, and earned three Newbery Honors.  Many Tate’s 4th and 5th graders, along with their parents, filled the first four rows of the auditorium and listened as Gary Paulsen spoke about his life and his love for writing.  Following the program, several Tate’s students waited faithfully in line for two hours to have the opportunity to meet Mr. Paulsen and have their books autographed.  It was an exciting evening!