School & Author Visits
I'm passionate about books and their creation and enjoy nothing more than sharing that love with others. In my presentations I give a real-life look at what it means to bring a story to life through words and pictures.
Available for Virtual Visits! Story Laboratory In this highly interactive presentation, I deliver a behind the scenes look into my story laboratory and the science behind creating a book all while incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Go STEAM! Your students will never look at writing, invention, and art the same. Cooking Up a Story In this talk I share the recipe for 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. WORKSHOPS The Story Laboratory Workshop Just like every scientist, an author needs the proper lab. I will explain in a fun and inventive way the tools and requirements of a story lab. Then together we will gather our materials, conduct a "book dissection," and bring a character to life. 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. 
And for Teachers...
Picture This: The Visual Language of Picture Books A look into the illustrator' s visual toolbox and how it is used to create content in picture books that enriches the reading experience, enable decoding, and allow for greater comprehension by the reader. You'll never look at a picture the same! Bringing Biographies to Life in the Classroom This workshop gives insights into today's new and innovative biographies and offers creative ways to use them across the curriculum.S 
What People Are Saying
"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. |
NEW AUTHOR VISIT PACKET! I want to make hosting an author visit as simple and stress-free as possible. Below are forms and information to help you plan. Have further questions?
Please contact me. 
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CONFERENCES, WORKSHOPS, AND KEYNOTES
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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. A sample of topics include :
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