Book a Visit
As a retired educator, I love opportunities to visit Primary/Junior classrooms and get a 'kid fix'. I'm also available for library visits and book signings as well as presentations to small groups of adults interested in the writing and publishing process. If you are in Southwestern Ontario, please consider contacting me.
​
I try to keep my presentations affordable with a suggested honorarium of $10 - $20 CAD per classroom plus mileage (and overnight accommodations if required) however I will do my best to work with your budget.
Classroom visits
A classroom presentation is usually 20 - 30 minutes in length depending on the age of the students. One class at a time is ideal but I will do two at once if need be, preferably only one grade up/down as it is easier to target the presentation to the students' cognitive levels. However, I am flexible and will strive to meet your curriculum expectations and timetable constraints! Copies of my books will be available for sale.
​
In an FDK classroom, I share how I get ideas for my stories and write them on paper. This is done in age appropriate terms and includes opportunities for movement and acting. I then read a selection of my chime in books. A short Q&A is inserted between each story to help develop oral language skills.
​
In Primary classrooms, I explain how I get ideas for my stories, write and published books. The presentation is age appropriate with an emphasis on the importance of editing and adding extra details to their writing and illustrations. I then read a book to the class, taking time to point out reading strategies such as picture clues, predicting and inferencing. Students are allowed to ask questions and, if time allows, a second book can be read.
​
A Junior classroom presentation includes an explanation of the writing and publishing process from beginning to end. Emphasis is placed on the importance of revisions, adding detail and word choice. As well, I discuss other considerations such as knowing the purpose of your writing and writing for your audience. A reading of one of my books follows and the visit ends with a Q&A or discussion of the book's message.
Library visits, small group presentations and book signing
I'd be delighted to visit your local library, book club or service group to do a presentation and/or book signing.
Similar to my classroom visits, I will discuss the writing and publishing process in terms that are appropriate for the audience. Â I can do readings of my published books as well as works in process. Â
Copies of my books will be available for sale.