STEM Launch students meet the creators of Dork Diaries

The image shows a group of children in a classroom setting, with several adults standing in the foreground holding large drawings or portraits. The background includes colorful posters and decorations, suggesting an educational or artistic environment.

Engage
Focus on Students
Social-Emotional Learning

Jan 20 2026

Earlier this year, STEM Launch had the exciting opportunity to welcome Dork Diaries author Rachel Renée Russell and her daughter and illustrator Nikki Russell, for a special author visit.

A person wearing a bright pink and yellow camouflage-patterned jacket and pants is standing in front of a National Park Service sign, holding a microphone and speaking.

Fourth and fifth graders packed the library with energy, eager to hear about the creative process behind their favorite series. One of the highlights of the day was when Nikki began “dorkifying” students - drawing quick caricatures of them in the signature Dork Diaries style. Laughter and cheers filled the room as familiar faces appeared on the page, transformed into doodle-style stars.

A young student, wearing a vibrant pink outfit, is standing in front of a classroom bulletin board displaying the words "Worlds, and to each other."

The fun didn’t stop there. Jules Archuleta, the Media Tech from Thornton Middle School and a devoted Dork Diaries fan, happened to be visiting for the event. To everyone’s delight, Nikki surprised her with a personalized “dorkified” portrait as well.

We are incredibly grateful to Second Star to the Right bookstore for giving us this amazing opportunity. It was a joyful, memorable day packed with creativity, inspiration, and pure excitement for reading and art.