Over the course of each school year I visit a lot of schools, libraries, and bookstores, not to mention national and state reading conferences. All of my presentations are filled with elements of storytelling, puppetry, music, and lots of artifacts from my publishing experience. My intent is both to entertain and to inform audiences, using my writing and publishing experiences as the focus.
|
 |
| photo by nataliephoto.net |
|
|
 |
| photo by nataliephoto.net |
|
|
Storytelling for Younger Students
|
Most of my school programs involve offering 45 minute multi-grade level presentations. Author programs for children in grades pre-K through 2nd grade are different from those for children grades 3-5 and beyond. With younger children I am much more animated in my storytelling and guide students more consciously through my writing experiences. I also invite younger audiences to participate in the storytelling experience.
|
Writing Process for Older Students
|
With older students I talk more extensively about the writing process and use the language of 6+1 Trait Writing, i.e., idea development, organization, word choice, fluency, voice, conventions, and presentation. These are concepts that teachers and school districts are using across the country to talk about good writing. In these assemblies I’m more conversational in tone, hoping to engage students more at their own level. I encourage students to ask questions relevant to their writing interests and experiences.
|
 |
| photo by nataliephoto.net |
|
|
I also offer Family Reading Programs for schools and libraries. Sometimes I do this in conjunction with a series of programs offered during the school day, or independently as a kick-off to a school or library book sale or literacy program. In this setting, I draw strongly upon my performing arts background and deliver an upbeat, action-packed presentation filled with music, storytelling and humor. As parents often want a signed book for their home collection, I bring a cartful of books to sell and sign at the end of my program.
|
Audio Samples of My Books
|
To hear me read one of my stories, click on a title below only once. You should get a pop-up window and the file should start playing automatically. To stop the file, just close the pop-up window. Each story is set to a background of music and/or sound effects to heighten the story's intent. All the background effects were created by me using an audio program with live and prerecorded feeds.
|
Public Library Program
$450 for one 45-minute program
Reading Council Presentation and Book Signing
$450 for one 45- minute presentation plus time to sign books
Evening Family Literacy Program
$450 for one 45-minute program
$300 if combined with earlier day programs
District Young Authors Awards Ceremony
$625 for one 45-minute presentation
Chicago and Suburban Area Schools
$625 for two 45-minute programs
$800 for three 45-minute programs
School Programs Beyond the Greater Chicago Area
$315 per presentation with a minimum of three presentations
(travel and lodging expenses may apply)
Availability
Try me, I can usually find an available date for an author visit.
Contact me by phone (773.784.4832) or by email (nikolabooks@gmail.com)
|
|
|