Presentations for Schools and Libraries
NEW! I Don't Have a Clue 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. During this presentation, we’ll put on our sleuthing hats and investigate two great ways to come up with ideas, then brainstorm some possible story scenarios. Especially good for young or reluctant writers.
Presentaton Length: 45-60 minutes
Suggested Audience: 1st Grade and up
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, literacy night, book fairs, etc.
Presentaton Length: 45-60 minutes
Suggested Audience: K and up
Note: I can do a 30-minute “mini version” of this presentation for kindergarten students.
Classroom or Grade-Level Workshops
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: 45-60 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. Reproducible handouts will be provided.
Presentation length: 60 minutes
Suggested audience: 4th grade and up
New! The Case of the Boring Beginning
How do you “hook” your readers right from the start of your story? We’ll look at some examples, talk about what works – and what doesn’t – then learn five ways to give any story a “strong start.”
Presentation length: 60 minutes
Suggested audience: 5th 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
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! I’ll share what I’ve learned on my journey to publication, from advertising writer to school counselor to children’s author – and how your own career path and life experiences have prepared you to write for children. . Learn how to plan your own journey, and 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.
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.