author visits
school, library & conference programs
Any of my school, library or conference programs can be tailored for adults,
high school students, middle school students, or elementary school students and
can be adapted for either larger group “assembly
style” programs or small group workshops (up to 25 participants).
I am conversant in both English and Spanish.
One and two-day workshops are available. Sample programs include:
FICTION WRITING WORKSHOP:
CHARACTERS THAT LEAP OFF THE PAGE!
Good stories begin with vibrant characters. In this workshop, I share some of the secrets to creating realistic, interesting characters that readers will want to spend time with. Then, using a number of easy exercises that spark the imagination, I help participants create strong characters of their own.
FICTION WRITING WORKSHOP:
CHARACTERS THAT LEAP OFF THE PAGE!
Good stories begin with vibrant characters. In this workshop, I share some of the secrets to creating realistic, interesting characters that readers will want to spend time with. Then, using a number of easy exercises that spark the imagination, I help participants create strong characters of their own.
FICTION WRITING WORKSHIP:
FIRST SCENES, FIRST PAGES, FIRST SENTENCES
Great story beginnings demand a reader’s attention. They grab one’s interest from the very start using action, character and conflict that pull a reader into their worlds. In this workshop program, I discuss how a story weaves a spell, and I 'give away' the secret tools that good storytellers use in making up great beginnings—tools such descriptive words, details and “show don’t tell.” Then, using a number of easy exercises that spark the imagination, I help participants strengthen their own stories with gripping beginnings that will keep those pages turning.
A WRITER'S TOOLBOX
With the right tools, anyone can learn to write more descriptively. Where do ideas come from? How do good writers turn ideas into interesting, descriptive writing? This single-session program stresses effective writing techniques such as character, setting, plot, voice, choosing the right details and “show, don’t tell.” Worksheets are provided for follow-up activity.
A WRITER'S JOURNEY
What’s it really like to be a writer? This discussion focuses on how I became a writer, including sharing earlier works, the submission process, and what characteristics one needs to succeed in this competitive but rewarding field. Along the way, I walk through my process of writing a novel, including where I get ideas, how I create characters and plots, outlining, first drafts, and the revision process. Includes a question-and-answer segment.
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FIRST SCENES, FIRST PAGES, FIRST SENTENCES
Great story beginnings demand a reader’s attention. They grab one’s interest from the very start using action, character and conflict that pull a reader into their worlds. In this workshop program, I discuss how a story weaves a spell, and I 'give away' the secret tools that good storytellers use in making up great beginnings—tools such descriptive words, details and “show don’t tell.” Then, using a number of easy exercises that spark the imagination, I help participants strengthen their own stories with gripping beginnings that will keep those pages turning.
A WRITER'S TOOLBOX
With the right tools, anyone can learn to write more descriptively. Where do ideas come from? How do good writers turn ideas into interesting, descriptive writing? This single-session program stresses effective writing techniques such as character, setting, plot, voice, choosing the right details and “show, don’t tell.” Worksheets are provided for follow-up activity.
A WRITER'S JOURNEY
What’s it really like to be a writer? This discussion focuses on how I became a writer, including sharing earlier works, the submission process, and what characteristics one needs to succeed in this competitive but rewarding field. Along the way, I walk through my process of writing a novel, including where I get ideas, how I create characters and plots, outlining, first drafts, and the revision process. Includes a question-and-answer segment.
BACK TO TOP
