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Curriculum Vitae

CHILDREN CAN ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS

When I was little, I wanted to be a children's book author and illustrator when I grew up. My dream did come true. My books have won numerous awards, and are available all over the United States and all over the world.

I share my love of writing and illustrating, and I share my life and inspirations when I visit schools.



WHAT I DO IN MY SCHOOL PROGRAMS:

I love to inspire students and teachers. My programs are interactive and
tailored to grade level. In my programs, I discuss how I got started, including showing a book that I made when I was in the fourth grade. I stress keeping sketchbooks/journals and I share mine. I shed light on the writing process, from concept to finished book. I will read from my work. Then I do a unique presentation on character creation that will enlighten and inspire students to draw their own characters with my help. I always encourage questions and stress individuality, not "perfection."



THE NUTS & BOLTS

My program works best for grades K-5, but I am happy to talk to all grades, and adults, too. (I have also given Teacher Inservice Programs.)

I will do four one-hour presentations in one day. (The hour does not include the time for students to get settled and to exit the room.)

Groups can be as large as the space will comfortably accommodate, but smaller groups are always better.

I require an easel with large pad or poster board, a microphone (clip-on is preferred), 2 long tables placed end-to-end, a chair and bottled water.

Students need to bring paper (unlined copy paper is fine), one drawing tool, pencil for older students and crayons for K &1, and something to lean on like a clip-board or lap-board.

I will sign all books, even books previously owned. (as long as they are MY books- I've been asked to sign "other" books, like "The Lion King" before!)

I can't sign pieces of paper, or shoes, or clothing- you'd be surprised what I've been asked to sign. But I will be happy to make a bookmark at school that will be memento of the day.

Extra events like Evening Parent slide discussions can be arranged.


FEES AND EXPENSES

Please discuss Honorariums with my school booking agent, Don Sass of Authors'N Education.

Travel expenses are usually paid by the school, including: hotel, rental car (if needed), and airfare.

More than two hours of driving (from home) requires reimbursement for miles.

Over two hours of driving (one way) requires an overnight stay.

Over three hours of driving will require air transportation.

Please note: It is always worthwhile to try to get other schools in your
area to coordinate visits and share costs.


FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO BOOK A VISIT:

Please contact my booking agent, Don Sass.
Authors'N Education
1 800 538-3228

WHAT TEACHERS/LIBRARIANS SAY:

"What fun it was to have you at View Ridge in March! You were a fabulous presenter and truly touched our students in many different ways. They still speak your name with much affection, and dog drawings manage to pop up all over the building. As we count the days until a new book is published, your other books continue to be read over and over again. Thank you for giving so much of yourself while you were here. Students, staff and parents were thrilled to have met you. We have decided you are truly a "work of heart" that now has a View Ridge Fan Club." -Linda Spoor, LMS, View Ridge Elementary

WHAT STUDENTS SAY: