and the thought provoking question a student asked me.
Earlier this year, I visited Independence Elementary. I love school visits so much – I love to talk, and I love to talk to kids! They are bright eyed, funny, curious, ambitious, talented, and hopeful. The students at Independence were no different.
My presentation started after a beautiful introduction by a student. My presentations typically include information about me and what I like, my writing process and journey thus far, and the inspiration behind each of my books. After the presentation, we opened the floor for a Q&A where the students asked so many great questions about my work.
After this, I visited some English classes to offer feedback on some students’ short stories and essays. Let me tell you – these kids are talented! I talked to a few that already want to be authors and illustrators one day, and I have no doubt in my mind that they will be.
I visited more classrooms, where the students had the chance to ask more questions in a more conversational setting. I laughed out loud at a few of these, and some students wanted me to elaborate more on my presentation from the morning.
I remember one girl asking if my writing process had changed between going from 1-2 toddlers, and how did I balance being both a mom and author? She asked was it hard and has it affected my writing? The measured way she asked the question made me slow down and think a bit deeper myself. At 33 years old, I still remember talking to authors in the fifth grade and I still have the books they signed. In the fifth grade, I’d already known I wanted to be an author and mom one day, so if I’d had asked this question, I know I would still remember the answer. I didn’t know if these were her dreams, but if either or both were, I wanted to give a truthful and inspiring answer. I’ll cover that in another newsletter coming soon!
I took photos with the classes and was escorted to the media center where there was a book signing and lunch with select students.
Throughout the day, I was escorted to each classroom by a different, vivacious student. I learned about their interests and their favorite classes. They were confident and bubbly. I had such a great time chatting with them.
After the signing, I ate lunch with the students. I bounced around different tables to eat with them and talk about books we’ve read and want to read. We even gave each other recommendations.
This was a fun school visit with so many and components and opportunities to talk with my main audience – children! Independence students showed an eagerness to learn, converse, and have fun. I am always grateful and honored to be considered for a school visit. Thank you so much for having me, Independence Elementary!
If you would like me to visit your school or event, please email by booking agent at booked@authorsunbound.com.
I need to start posting school visit photos like yours, I never thought of simply covering the students’ faces.
Yeah!! I got the idea while ago because I wanted to share the special moments with the kids while still respecting their privacy. I’d love to see your school visits!!