Author Appearances
Please contact me to schedule an author/illustrator appearance
or to book me for your next function.
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Schools
As a writer and illustrator of both fiction and non-fiction for young people of all ages, I can offer assemblies and workshops for a wide spectrum of audiences.
Considering an author visit for your school or library? Here is a taste of what to expect from my presentations as well as tips on how best to prepare.
School Presentations I offer several programs. Here is just a sampling. Don't see what you're looking for? Let me customize a presentation to suit your event's needs. Cooking up a Story explores the wonderful process of developing a story through illustration. The audience actively participates in selecting the ingredients that I then use to sketch out a tasty and satisfying tale. Story structure and characterization are all part of the mix. This is a fun and interactive presentation that is sure to get those creative juices bubbling. TEN MILES to Visual Literacy Words tell only half the story in a picture book. In this talk I share the many research tools I use for writing and illustrating non-fiction plus offer strategies for students and teachers alike on visual decoding. Hear the detective story behind the research for TEN MILE DAY and the Building of the Transcontinental Railroad. Creativity Takes Time Workshop A one hour presentation that walks the audience through the process of creating a picture book. This is followed by a character development exercise sure to leave them hungry to start crafting their own. But not yet! Through a hands-on demonstration they will experience why creativity takes time. What People Have to Say
"Thank you for the ‘high-energy level’ talks. Our students were very excited to see you work. I’ve requested a repeat visit!" "We certainly have a clearer picture of the process involved in publishing a children’s book. Your illustrations are wonderful!" "We have had a number of guests throughout the years, but I feel that your presentation was most valuable in encouraging our young authors and artists." "Your presentation was great! Very useful and with a different perspective. It's nice hearing from the real world....(Your presentation) reminded me of all I should present to students to make reading for understanding happen. Questions You May HaveHow do I prepare for your visit?
The earlier you schedule the better as many dates fill up fast. Once we have agreed on a day and signed a contract, there are several things you can do to prepare your students before my arrival. The best approach is to familiarize them with my books. A list of titles and their descriptions can be found on this site under "My Books." At least a couple weeks before I arrive, I will need a detailed schedule and driving directions. For my presentations I will require the following equipment:
If you do not have a room that can be darkened, please let me know well in advance so we can discuss options. What will you provide? Prior to my visit I will send at least one master sheet of bookmarks that can be reproduced for the students and a book order form if you request one. How much will it cost? Prices vary depending on school location, the number of assemblies, and whether there will be additional services such as kindergarten visits, workshops, or book fair appearances added on. To contact me to discuss details or obtain a quote CLICK HERE. Note: Often schools will work together to help defray travel expenses. For example, one school may have me visit one day, and another school in the vicinity may have me visit the next. Another alternative is for a school to schedule me for two assemblies in the morning and another school for two assemblies in the afternoon. |
Libraries
I believe in fostering a love for books and am a big supporter of schools and libraries. I have been on the board of the Friends of the Simi Valley Library and have participated in numerous storytimes, community outreach events, educational programs, and author days. Are you interested in getting kids excited about reading? Let me help you.
Writing Conferences
Looking for a keynote or workshop presenter? Someone to conduct an all day intensive for authors or artists? Consider giving me a call. I have spoken for numerous SCBWI functions, reading and library associations, and conferences. Topics have included "How to Keep Your Career in Orbit Once You've Landed a Contract," "The Write Stuff: A Look at Launching a Picture Book," "Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh MY!: Writing with Animals in Mind," and "Repair Shop Talk: How to Keep Your Submission from Backfiring" just to name a few. I am also available to conduct manuscript and portfolio critiques. Please contact me to discuss what I can offer for your next event.
Book Stores
I am hooked on books and find it nearly impossible to pass up a bookstore. (I even worked in one for a time until I realized I was spending most of my earnings books!) Consequently, I love nothing more than sharing my enthusiasm with kids and their parents for these marvelous treasure troves and the wonders they carry, whether it be through an author signing, storytime, special-interest presentation, or book related craft.
 Book Festivals
Throughout my career I have been a regular participant at book events, from young author fairs to the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, the largest book festival in the country. 
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