I love visiting schools to talk about books and reading and writing. My programs are best suited to grades K-8, but I can talk to high schoolers, too.

Based on my biographies written for emerging readers, this presentation for younger readers offers a look at inspiring people who started out life as ordinary kids and grew up to make their dreams come true. Whether you want to win Olympic gold medals, blast off into space, twirl across a stage, or sit on the Supreme Court, all you need is belief in yourself and the support of friends and family to make your own dreams come true.   

Along the way I talk about doing research, getting your facts right, and creating entertaining nonfiction stories.

Best for grades K-3

In this presentation I look at both fiction and nonfiction, building on the YOU SHOULD MEET presentation and the discussion of how books are made to incorporate some of my novel for young readres.

Topics include research and revision techniques, establishing setting, and creating compelling scenes and characters. Along the way I stress the tools of good writing, such as using descriptive detail, strong nouns and verbs, and “show, don’t tell.”  

Best for grades 2-4

I bring history to life with the weird, wacky stories that don’t make it into the history textbooks. Did a broken egg really save the Colonial rebellion? How did a a stray dog from New Haven end up on the battlefield in France?

Includes a discussion of where ideas come from and how to draw on history and the world around you to create stories,.

Topics include research and revision techniques, establishing setting, and creating compelling scenes and characters. Along the way I stress the tools of good writing, such as using descriptive detail, strong nouns and verbs, and “show, don’t tell.”  

Best for grades 3-6

Writing Workshops tailored to your students’ needs also available. Contact me for more information:

Laurie.calkhoven@gmail.com

Single Presentation (45-60) minutes, via Zoom: $250.00

Full Day: Up to four presentations (one can be a writing workshop): $1,200 plus travel expenses

Twenty Minute Q and A session with a class, book club, or homeschooling group that has read one of my books: Free

Let's talk about your students' needs and my availability: laurie.calkhoven@gmail.com