Author James Preller has said that authors don’t do school visits - schools do author visits. It's a great perspective, because it reinforces the notion that schools are anticipating something tangible and beneficial from the visit. An author cannot just "show up" and expect a mere book reading to carry the day. If a school, library, or other organization is going to host me, I plan to make that visit as memorable as possible.

I love chatting with elementary and middle school classes about writing:
what poetry and narratives are, how to rhyme (or not!), and even simply how to stimulate one’s imagination.

How did this book come to be?
What problems were encountered in creating it?
Why did the illustrator take a 2-week trip to the UK before beginning?
Why is my favorite dinosaur NOT in the book?
And what's the deal with the iguanadon's thumb, anyway??

These questions and more will be answered, in a lively, engaging way!

I tailor my presentations to fit the needs of the classroom/grade. Sometimes sessions will focus on questions and answers while some are more hands-on, creating poetry and getting into the nuts and bolts of what poetry is all about.

One day I might be sharing details of how I became a writer and voice artist in an informational setting the next, I’ll be discussing dinosaurs, tree ferns, and lobsters. I try to align my poetry and writing presentations with Common Core Anchor Standards for Writing 3, 4 & 5 (the three most apropos, in my opinion, for poetry): writing succinct yet detailed narratives, developing writing that is appropriate for the audience/subject, and strengthening writing via revision/editing.

While I prefer to visit in person – nothing beats the energy of live interaction – I am also available for free, short virtual visits of up to 15 minutes via platforms like Zoom, Skype, and Google Meets.

My rates for in-person school visits within 50 miles are as follows:

Half-day (up to 3 presentations): $400
Full-day (up to 5 presentations): $700
(mileage expenses beyond 50 miles can be discussed upon booking)

30-minute virtual session: $75
45-minute virtual session: $125
20-minute virtual Q&A: Free, but limited availability

With any of the in-person options, I'm always happy to join students or teachers/staff for a lunchtime chat, as well. Contact me using the link below and let's plan something!