Author Visits
I love discussing writing with students and with enthusiastic adults. I’m happy to visit a school, library or writing group to talk about writing and to share what I’ve learned.
As a supply teacher, I’m comfortable in a school setting and accustomed to engaging students. I prefer to address no more than two classes at a time, and to combine an author visit with a writing workshop to help students get the most from the experience. An ideal location is a school library or classroom set up so that each student has a comfortable writing space.
Cost is $150 for an author visit (short reading if desired, combined with Q&A) and a writing workshop based on one of the following topics. Maximum 60 students, approximately one hour in length. Travel costs and accommodations may need to be factored in, but will be discussed ahead of time.
Suggested writing workshop topics:
-Story structure (beginning, middle and end, and points in between)
-The writing process (brainstorming, outlining, writing, editing, fine-tuning)
-Writing from life (students draw on own experiences; will also touch on descriptive writing)
-Descriptive writing (power verbs, focus on the five senses)
-Character development
The Dragon Speaker books work well from about fourth grade onwards, and Boarder Patrol is ideal for students in grade six and up.
I am happy to present to a younger audience, but would suggest that in that case it be more of a general author visit/writing workshop with the focus on their writing rather than mine.
I am open to different venues and workshop styles. Email me at erin@erinthomas.ca to discuss booking an author visit of any kind.
Useful information on author visits can be found here, on the CANSCAIP web site.