Presentations for Schools and Libraries
How a Book Becomes a Book: From Inspiration to Publication
It takes more than a writer to get a book published. We’ll take a look at all the "characters" involved in bringing an author’s idea to life — as well as the different steps involved in the process — in this interactive presentation that can be tailored to any size audience, from individual classrooms to assemblies. Also good for evening events, such as PTA/PTO meetings, Young Author’s Night, book fairs, etc.
Presentaton Length: 45-60 minutes
Suggested Audience: K and up
Where Do Ideas Come From?
One common question asked of authors is, "Where do you get your ideas?" It really isn’t a big mystery. Writers get their ideas from the everyday world around them, and you can, too. Ideas are everywhere. You just need to know where — and how — to look for them. We’ll put on our sleuthing hats and investigate some ways to find ideas for fiction, as well as for non-fiction.
Presentaton Length: 45-60 minutes
Suggested Audience: 1st grade and up
Let’s Write a "Story-O"
This presentation provides an overview of how to create a short story that is good from start to finish. Using the infamous chocolate sandwich cookie to illustrate irresistible openings, marvelous middles, and satisfying endings, we’ll write a recipe for a scrumptious story — then eat our illustration! Story "recipe" and cookies included.
Presentaton Length: 30-45 minutes
Suggested Audience: 1st grade and up
The Magic of Three
The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, the Three Billy Goats Gruff. The number three is an important element in children’s literature, as well as an important tool for writers. So what’s behind this "magic of three"? Find out, as we look at different examples and learn the formula for creating conflict, maintaining tension, and holding a reader’s interest. Once you know the secret, you’ll find that writing a good story is just about as easy as…well, one, two, three!
Presentation length: 60 minutes
Suggested audience: 4th grade and up
Creating Characters Readers Care About
Would you like to read a book about a perfect person that has no problems? Of course not! That’s boring. So how can you avoid the cardboard character when writing your own story? We’ll learn about the character collage and the character interview – two tools that you can use to create characters that you – and your readers – care about. Each participant will receive handouts. In addition, this presentation can be lengthened to include time for participants to create their own character collages.
Presentation length: 60-90 minutes
Suggested audience: 5th grade and up
“I Don’t Know What to Write About!”
Kids aren’t the only ones who get stuck when faced with a blank page. Writers of all ages sometimes struggle to find something to write about. And just like kids, adult writers often have to complete assignments on a deadline. We’ll look at two ways to come up with ideas, and try one of them out as we write a story together. Especially good for young or reluctant writers.
Presentation length: 30 minutes
Suggested audience: 1st grade and up
No More Boring Beginnings!
How do you “hook” your readers right from the start, and make them want to keep reading? We’ll look at different examples and talk about what works, and what doesn’t. We’ll also learn five ways to give a story a “strong start,” and work together to “revive” some boring beginnings. Handout provided.
Presentation length: 60 minutes
Suggested audience: 4th grade and up
All about Me. Writing the Memoir
What’s a memoir? And how do you go about writing one? This presentation offers an easy-to-understand explanation, as well as the tools for students to write their own “slice of life” at a later date.
Presentation length: 30-45 minutes
Suggested audience: 5th grade and up
Creative Non-Fiction: Making Facts Fun
The days when non-fiction writing was dry and boring are gone! Learn five techniques of fiction writers that can be applied to make writing assignments more appealing to write – and to read! Handouts provided.
Presentation length: 45-60 minutes
Suggested audience: 5th grade and up
Poetry Play
Do you haiku? This presentation introduces students to this popular type of poem. We’ll read some examples, learn the formula for creating haiku, and practice writing our own. As an option, this presentation can be lengthened to include an illustration activity. Note: Other poetry mini-lessons are available – including options for younger children.
Presentation length: 60-90 minutes
Suggested audience: 4th grade and up
Presentations for Professionals
New! Caring for Kids with Books
It’s a challenge for anyone who works with kids to help guide and support them in today’s troubled times. Books are a non-threatening way to introduce tough – or tender --topics and open the lines of communication. The right book in the right hands at the right time can make the difference in the life of a child who may be feeling alone in his or her situation. This presentation will take a look at bibliotherapy, including the difference between niche books and trade market books, a look at resources for a wide range of topics, and real-life examples of how books can be used therapeutically. Handouts are included.
Presentation length: 60 minutes
Suggested audience: Educators, librarians, school counselors, clergy, mental-health professionals
Birth of a Book
This light-hearted yet informative presentation takes a look at how a book becomes a book – from conception to “delivery.” See all the stages a manuscript goes through, from when the book is but a gleam in the author’s eye to when the book is available for all to admire at the nearest bookstore. Then have the opportunity to have your questions answered by an experienced book “parent.”
Presentation length: 60 minutes
Suggested audience: Educators, librarians, and anyone interested in the publication process
The Path to Publication: One Writer’s Story
So you want to write for children, but don’t know where to start? You’re not alone! Join author Jeanie Franz Ransom as she shares what she learned on the route to publication, from advertising writer to children’s author. Learn how to plan your own journey, including what you need to pack in your writer’s “suitcase.” Handouts are included.
Presentation length: 60 minutes
Suggested audience: Educators, librarians, and anyone interested in writing for children