School and Library Visits
Since 1999, when I began writing books for children, I have made many presentations in schools, libraries and bookstores. My presentations tend to be somewhat informal. I think it gives my talks more energy when I don’t keep to a rigid script. However, I always have a general plan that I layout before each presentation (which readings I’ll do, which topics I plan to emphasize). I do not have any multimedia props, though I often bring photographs and/or sports memorabilia that relate to my current book projects.
I like to emphasize to schoolchildren that writing does not just mean thinking up creative stories. Most of the writing we do in our lives – for school or for work – will be non-fiction. Though I have written two novels, and can speak to that too, for me, working mostly on historical non-fiction, writing can be like detective work. Often, I have to do a lot of research to find the truth behind the legends in sports. To me, this is the best part of what I get to do. I like to discover things that no one else knows. In talking about research, I always explain how the Internet can make this so much easier … but that a researcher has to be very careful about what type of sources to use.
I like to leave a lot of time for questions. If there are a lot of questions, I hate to have to cut off any children. If there aren’t a lot of questions, I can pick up the talk again, or do more readings, with a better idea of what the children want to hear about.
Length of Visit
Generally, my presentations last for one hour, though they can be shorter to accommodate the time of your school periods. I am happy to do two, or even three talks per school visit, or combine two or three talks between different schools in the same area.
Grades
My preference is to present to grades 4 to 6, but I’m comfortable with anything from grades 3 to 12.
Venue
I prefer to present in classrooms or libraries to groups ranging from 30 to 90 people. Gymnasiums can be difficult due to the acoustics, but I will present to larger groups in a school gym or auditorium if need be.
Fees and Travel
Please contact me directly for information on fees. The price is slightly reduced for each session when booking more than one. Unfortunately, I have to charge HST as well, and a mileage fee for most sessions. The mileage charge can be negotiated for multiple bookings. Please check with The Writers’ Union of Canada and the Canada Council for possible assistance with fee and travel financial aid. (Please allow plenty of time to arrange this aid, as applications must be made well in advance of the author visit.)
I live in Owen Sound, Ontario, but am happy to visit schools throughout the Greater Toronto Area and across most of Southern Ontario and “cottage country.” If you’re further away, contact me and we can talk.
Adult Sessions and Conferences
Over the years, I have spoken to adult literacy groups, local historical societies, seniors groups and school/library administrators.
Presentation Topics
- Writing for Children
- The History of Professional Hockey
- The History of the Stanley Cup
Presentations last one hour, including 15 minutes for questions.
Fees and Travel
Please contact me directly for information on fees. Unfortunately, I have to charge HST as well, and a mileage fee for most sessions. The mileage charge can be negotiated for multiple bookings. Please check with the Canada Council for possible assistance with fee and travel financial aid. (Please allow plenty of time to arrange this aid, as applications must be made well in advance of the author visit.)
I live in Owen Sound, Ontario, but am happy to visit locations throughout the Greater Toronto Area and across most of Southern Ontario and “cottage country.” If you’re further away, contact me and we can talk.