To request an in-person or virtual speaking engagement, please contact Authors Out Loud, or view my speaking profile.
School Visits
One of the reasons I like visiting schools and talking with students so much is the opportunity to demystify the process of making a book. I show examples of my rough drafts and revisions and talk about the process I go through when writing and how it is similar and differs from the process the students use. This connection through writing provides a foundation for teachers to refer back to long after the visit is over.
As a student, I never had an author visit my school. Consequently, I grew up thinking books came from some place far away. I know if an author had come to my school and discussed the process of making books, I would have considered the possibility of writing stories for myself and started sooner.
I enjoy working with students of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
FAQs
What do you do when you come to a school?
I work with teachers and librarians to set up a visit that will best meet the needs and interests of that school. Sometimes I present the process of how a book is created. Sometimes I work with students on their writing. Sometimes I combine these two. I can emphasize any aspect of the writing process that students need help with. I also always save time for student questions.
Should students read your books before you come?
Yes, this makes a huge difference. Students feel much more connected and have much better questions if they have read some of the books.
Should students prepare questions in advance?
Students can be encouraged to think about questions, but many of these, I will answer in my presentation. I prefer students not write out questions in advance, but generate questions from what we discuss and ideas they would like to know more about.
How many students can you see?
I am happy to work with large groups or small.
How many sessions do you do?
I can do up to four fifty-minute sessions per day. This is a general guide and I am happy to adjust to the time periods in your school.
I’ve always wanted to write a children’s book, where should I start?
The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators is an organization that offers a good overview and specific suggestions on how to get started.
International Schools
I love to travel and to talk about books and reading and writing. I have been fortunate to combine these loves on visits to schools around the world. I work with students from pre-K to grade 12, and I am happy to design a program that fits the needs of your students and teachers.
International travel allows me to learn new things about people, places, and cultures, and I return from these trips energized and eager to share what I have experienced. I enjoy the wide mix of students I encounter in international schools and feel I learn as much from the students and teachers as they learn from me.
I live in Minnesota so November, December, January, February, March, and April are particularly nice times of the year for me to visit your school.