Teen siblings co-author book chronicling what makes Friendswood special
FRIENDSWOOD, TX (KTRK) -- Barely into their teenage years, at ages 13 and 14, siblings Zachary and Kathryn Kennedy did more than read a book. They started writing one.
Four years later, "Friendswood: Secrets to Success," is out in print, an homage to the community in which they were raised.
It is a series of essays the siblings wrote. While some friends were undoubtedly watching television and consumed with video games, the Kennedy kids were interviewing the people who made Friendswood into the city it is today.
Among the favorite stories told to Zachary, was that of the con man Frank Abagnale, famous for impersonating everyone from doctors to pilots. Abagnale, says Kennedy, was once in Friendswood.
Essays on more popular Friendswood natives include three beauty queens who won the title of Miss Texas. There are also interviews with former mayors, school coaches and first responders.
And yes, there was sibling rivalry in the project. "If Katy and I both liked the interview, we'd fight in the car over who'd get to write it."
Says Kathryn, "I always won."
It's the story of the spirit that created a thriving community and the people who had and have a large dose of civic responsibility.
Add the Kennedy siblings to that list. They're donating part of the proceeds to nonprofit groups in Friendswood. And they point out there's a donation form in the book to give to their own education fund.
Both graduated early from high school. Zach, 18, is going to UTMB to study medicine. Kathryn, 17, is in college as well. Both want to be medical missionaries.
