Testimonials

“The information you gave has changed the way I write.” — Rebekah, 10 years old

Loved seeing the “dummy” book and F+G’s – it made the process more real to the kids. Also appreciated your discussion of the writing process – how long it took, the stops and starts, etc. And of course I loved hearing the stories and the beautiful illustrations!  – Anne Geer, Media Specialist, Turner Creek Elementary School

“I think we share the same bond. You and I both love books. I love to write books, except mine are not published. I think you were perfect in class.” –Kelly H. 5th grade student

The children really enjoyed seeing how a real author writes. I liked how you shared the process behind publishing a book. It went right along with our discussions about the writing process!  – Kara, 2nd grade teacher

“I liked how you had a slide show ready for us and you stopped and talked to us about each and every thing.”  – Alex, 5th grade.

You made being an author real to my students. Authors are no longer faceless. You gave them a voice! — Ms. Cox, 1st grade teacher

“Thank you for taking time out of your day to come to our school and teach us about what you have to do to make a book. I used to think making books wouldn’t be fun but now I know how fun it is. I’m gonna make more books now.” — Hunter, age 11

Your casual presentation and “realism” showed the students that you are a real person – not somebody far away. The slide show and your blunt comments were great. It showed my students that the first draft is far from being the final one and it’s okay not to be satisfied the first time. — Ms. Lovingood, 5th grade teacher

“Just so you know, a person would have to be crazy to not like your presentation.”‘ –Katherine, Horton Middle School

I loved how your writing strategies and process totally complimented what we had already talked about and what we’ll spend time talking about in the future. Although they are 5th graders, the picture book presentation and process is very applicable to what they would do as writers.” — Ms. Russell, 5th grade teacher

“Thank you for coming to teach us about authors. I was very interested in what you were talking about. It helped me understand how books are made. You also helped me get into reading and writing. Maybe someday I’ll be an author.” — John, 10 years old.