Photo Gallery: Erin Gruwell visits students at Back Bay High School

Erin Gruwell, educator and author of “Freedom Writers,” gives a hug to Avery Ahuatzi on Friday, December 8.   (Scott Smeltzer / Daily Pilot )

Erin Gruwell, educator and author of “Freedom Writers,” speaks to Back Bay High School students and faculty on Friday, December 8.   (Scott Smeltzer / Daily Pilot )

Erin Gruwell, educator and author of “Freedom Writers,” signs a book for Shantel Sanchez at Back Bay High School on Friday, December 8.   (Scott Smeltzer / Daily Pilot )

Erin Gruwell, educator and author of “Freedom Writers,” speaks during an assembly at Back Bay High School on Friday, December 8.   (Scott Smeltzer / Daily Pilot )