Logan Libretti gave himself quite the goal to reach when he started sixth grade three years ago: He was going to be a published writer by the time he finished middle school. Just five days before he graduated from eighth grade this year, he met that goal by having his first article featured in Young Mensan Magazine, a publication written for and by the younger members of Mensa International.
Mensa is a non-profit, international society for high intellect individuals; specifically, individuals who have scored in the 98th percentile on an approved intelligence test.
Logan became a member of Mensa International in 2009, when he was in the first grade.
Not only did he get his article, “Where Authors Get Their Ideas,” published, he also earned one of three available editor spots.
“I was very excited,” Logan said. “I read a lot, but I like writing more.”
Logan’s article is about how authors — from Stephen King to Suzanne Collins — get their ideas and inspiration. It can be found on page 13 in the June edition of Young Mensan Magazine.
The article was personal to Logan, who also enjoys writing stories of his own.
“I like to write stories like fantasies,” he said. “I like to cover all genres and characters. I have a few stories finished, from class projects and creative writing.”
His friends, he said, have been supportive of his goals and success.
“They knew that I like writing a lot,” he said. “I told them, and they were extremely excited and happy for me.”
Logan attributes much of his interest in writing to his elementary school language arts teachers and coaches, who encouraged him to pursue his interest.
He is especially grateful to his fourth-grade teacher, April Langston, who is now a guidance counselor at Strawberry Crest High School — the same high school where Logan will start as a freshman in the International Baccalaureate program this fall.
“It’s gonna be a big difference,” Logan said of starting high school. “I’m just excited to learn more. If I do well and I work hard, I could get college credits and get closer to what I want to do in the future.”
Although he doesn’t have another specific goal set in place just yet, Logan thinks he might be interested in writing for a local publication.
“I like finding out other people’s stories and telling other people’s stories,” Logan said.
His mother, Libby, has high hopes for her son as he enters this next stage of his education.
“The biggest [goal] would be for him to graduate top of the class in IB and get into a good college,” she said. “If he has a good education, we feel like whatever goals he sets he’ll be able to achieve.”
For now, Logan will continue to enjoy the perks of his new title. He will write and edit for Young Mensan Magazine for the September, December and March issues, before re-applying for the same position.
Logan enjoys the same things most other 13-year-olds enjoy, including playing video games, hanging out with friends and spending time with his family. But writing will remain in the forefront.
“I’m already preparing for the September issue,” Logan said. “And I’m considering ideas I would want to do for magazines and newspapers. If it’s a challenge to me, it makes me want to do it more.”
LOGAN’S FUN FACTS
Favorite Food: Homemade Mac n’ Cheese
Favorite Color: Red
Favorite Subject in School: History
Favorite Authors: Stephen King and James Patterson
Currently Reading: “On Writing” by Stephen King
Other Hobbies: Cooking and swimming
Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.