Third-grade student writes popular book

A 3rd grade student at Woodland Hills Elementary in Ammon just might become a best-selling author.
His inspiration? His homework.

It all started with an assignment on Chinese characters.

“I challenged them to try to write a little story using some of those characters in their story,” said teacher Michael Kennelly.
Luke Landers used a different kind of Chinese character.

“Luke came up with this book and used his character; he invented a character called the Child of Wo,” said Kennelly.

From there, it’s taken off. The series now includes five books.

“We always have pencil and paper out on the table,” said Amy Landers, Luke’s mother.
“He’s made other series and he brings Child of Wo into those series.”

Sometimes his classmates show up in the books; like the girl who’s name starts with “L.” She became Child of Wo’s girlfriend.

“Like they kiss at recess,” said Luke.
The series includes “Child of Wo Plays in the Snow” and “Child of Wo Visits America”. Now Luke’s character is taking shape in the form of a doll.

He drew a picture and a company made the doll. Now his classmates want one too.

For $10, anyone can have their own Child of Wo doll.

“He’s been asking me for a few months now, when is Walmart going to start carrying Child of Wo dolls,” Landers said. “I know he would like for it to take off into a bigger thing.”

No one expected Child of Wo to become such a hit, but overall it’s made a difference in Luke’s life.

“I’m excited that a simple little assignment instigated such a response from him,” said Kennelly.
“He’s become more confident in his abilities to make people laugh and enjoy his writing and creativity he has inside of his head,” Landers said.