Programs for Students
I’d be happy to visit your school and speak to students about my books or about the writing and publishing process. The following 45-minute presentations can be tailored appropriately for students in grades K-12. The Shakespeare’s Secret presentation (for Grades 4-8) and Masterpiece presentation (for Grades 3-7) are most meaningful for students who have read the books in advance.

“From Idea to Book”
Using one or two of my picture books as examples, with publishing props like running sheets and f&g’s, this presentation will give an overview of the road from initial burst of inspiration to published book (and of all the potholes in between!).

“The Shakespeare Authorship Mystery”
This presentation is intended as a companion to Shakespeare’s Secret. It will focus on the controversy over Shakespeare’s true identity and the research and writing of Shakespeare’s Secret. Who was the real Shakespeare? Does it matter? Why is an author who wrote 500 years ago still so relevant today?

“The Art of a Mystery: Masterpiece”
This presentation explores the elements of a good mystery and the process of writing and researching Masterpiece, with its combination of different themes (friendship, art, miniature worlds).

Programs for Adults
I love talking about writing (to anyone who will listen). These 45-minute presentations are suitable for adults.

“A Good Story”
What are the crucial elements of a good story? This presentation will discuss character, tension, resolution, and voice, and the important ways each of these elements impacts the reader’s enthusiasm for a book.

“Vision and Revision”
A discussion of the revision process and the changes that refine and initial idea into a finished work of fiction. This presention examines the creative aspect of revision—re-thinking character and plot—as well as the mechanics of fixing common writing problems.

“Breaking In, Standing Out”
A brief history of my own adventures as a “slush-pile baby,” and the most useful advice I can offer for anyone trying to break into children’s publishing.

Panel Discussions and Multi-Author Events
I really enjoy participating in programs with other authors. I think the variety of experiences and perspectives can be particularly engaging for the audience–whether children or adults–and can spark wonderful discussions. Please think of me if you’re planning an author panel on a relevant topic or some other program involving more than one author.

FEES are available on request and are based on a maximum of three sessions per day.