I love visiting with young writers and illustrators! I work with students of all ages, from Pre-K through 12th grade. I also love speaking with educators and librarians about using graphic novels in the classroom.
I am currently offering virtual and limited in-person visits for the 2024-2025 school year. Please send me a message via the contact page to learn more.
Lower Elementary
With younger kids, I focus on my picture books. I talk about how I write my stories and get my ideas, and I show early versions of my books and ask students to find the mistakes. During the second half of the presentation, we write and draw a story together, focusing on brainstorming, developing a character, and creating a story with a beginning, a middle, and an end.
Upper Elementary & Middle School
With upper elementary and middle school students, I focus on creating graphic novels. I show slides and sketches to talk about how I get ideas for my stories. The second half of the presentation is an interactive writing and drawing demonstration. Whenever possible, I like students to bring pencil and paper so they can try their hand at writing and drawing comics. If your class or school is reading When Stars are Scattered, I can tailor my presentations to place special emphasis on this book.
Workshops
Graphic novel workshops allow a more hands-on and intimate learning experience with students. We begin with a quick writing exercise and a discussion of the tools one can use while making comics: panels, word balloons, text boxes, etc. Students then complete their own autobiographical comic strip. Workshops work best with ages 8 and up, and with smaller groups (up to approximately 25 students).
What Are Your Visits Like?
When I visit a school, it’s an all-day affair! I can do up to 3 presentations and/or workshops during a visit. Presentations and workshops run about 45-60 minutes, but can be adapted to meet the needs of your school or library. Some schools like to host an author lunch with select groups of students or library aides. I am also happy to do book signings. Finally, I like to create a drawing (usually several!) that can be hung in the library or auctioned off after my visit.
How Do I Book A Visit?
Please email me for more information and to schedule a visit. I visit schools all over the United States, and the world! I live in Pennsylvania, so I am able to offer day visits to schools within driving distance. For visits that are further away and require a flight, I'll usually ask that you connect with other schools in your district so I can do 3-5 days of school visits at once. This cuts down on travel expenses, too.