Yours Truly on a Typical School Visit

I love speaking to children. My presentations are interactive and last 30-45 minutes including time for questions. A presentation typically contains three sections:

• I discuss some of the steps involved in publishing a book from ideas, to research, to writing the first draft, rewriting, galleys, layouts, signatures, and final product.
• I give an overview of some of my books, highlighting some of the holidays, missions of California, and my fiction book about a leprechaun, Rafferty McGill.
• During the last third of the program, I discuss my animal books--elephants, cheetahs, and humpback whales. Characteristics and interesting facts about these endangered animals are shown, using an overhead projector. Children listen to humpback whales singing and their feeding calls.

I prefer speaking in a library or media room setting with 60-80 children. I will, under special circumstances, do four presentations but prefer three. My talk is suited to grades 2-6. However, separate arrangements can be made for younger children. Equipment needed: table for display, overhead projector, microphone if in an auditorium.

For more information about fees or scheduling a visit, feel free to contact me.

What Educators and Students Say

"You sparked imaginations and inspired would-be writers."
-Carol C., Benjamin Beswick School, Tustin.

"Thank you for your presence and your wonderful presentations."
-Gloria V., Hayden Library, Midway City.

"You have such a flair for making books-your books-come alive in your presentation. The students were enthralled and certainly very appreciative."
-Elise P., Alta Vista School, Redondo Beach.

"I love your books and the ways you make them. My favorite book is called KWANZAA."
-Jonathan A., 4th grader.

"My favorite book was the CHEETAH book, because I really like cheetahs. I want to write a book myself someday."
-Martin R., 3rd. grader.

"My favorite part was when I saw the elephant's tooth. That was surprising."
-Stephanie D., 2nd grader.

"Thank you for a wonderful Authors Day Presentation at Hawes Elementary. You received rave reviews from both students and teachers."
-Kathryn S., Huntington Beach.

"Reading MY BEST FRIEND MARTHA RODGRIGUEZ was like reading about my life growing up in Colton, CA. Thank you for sharing your well-written and beautiful book. I was impressed at how much (cultural events and customs) you packed into 46 pages."
-Alisa E., Language Network, Irvine.

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