School Visits
I work primarily with elementary school groups, but have also done visits with middle school and high school classes. All of my talks are tailored to the age of the audience.
Topics include:
- my background
- my studio
- getting an idea down on paper
- writing and rewriting
- photography
- collage
- how a book is made
I will make up to four presentations in a day. Out of town visits are flat fee (plus expenses). I have more flexible rates for visits within New York City and are based on the number and type of presentation.
The sessions are generally about 45 minutes long to coincide with class periods. However, I find that with pre-schoolers and even some kindergarten classes that 30 -35 minutes is sufficient.
I believe that the experience is richer if the presentations can be made in a classroom or library with no more than 60 students per session. Of course, schools have budget and scheduling considerations that at times may make larger auditorium presentations the only feasible way to go.
Depending on the anticipated audience size, I can either show original art and photgraphs that I bring in a portfolio or do a Powerpoint presentation.
What ever the age and what ever the length of the visit, I devote time towards the end of the session to questions. This is an opportunity for the children to talk with a real live children's book author and I feel that this dialog is as important as anything I present to them.
I have found that school visits are most successful when the students have read my books before I arrive and have spent some time talking about them with their teacher or the school librarian. It can be useful for the children to think about questions that they have for me a day or two beforehand.
I am happy to discuss the best way for your school to meet your goals for an author visit. Please contact me at letters@ninacrews.com.