Author Visits
Dear Educators, Librarians and Other Gatekeepers ...
Although COVID-19 can change things at any time, I'd love to visit with you and your students or patrons, in person or online to talk about Ana, her garden, her wall, the Wild, and more! The Wall and the Wild came out in September 2021 and touches on themes of biodiversity as well as cultural diversity and inclusion. The main character Ana tries to grow what she considers the perfect garden in the perfect way and learns a few things from the endeavor. Though she gets frustrated, she doesn't give up! Options for topics we can discuss abound, from social-emotional learning to gardening and environmental conservation to building healthy communities and ecosystems. Also, take a look at Ana's ears. Representation matters!
Some Visit Options
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20 minutes for PreK - K: about 5 min intro, 15 minute read-aloud, and something fun to think about or do after
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30 minutes for PreK - Grade 5: about 5 min intro, 15 minute read-aloud, 10 minute Q&A and/or related activity to do after
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45 minutes for Grade 1 - Grade 5: about 10 min intro with some upfront things to think about, 15 minute read-aloud, 10 min discussion of story and themes, such as biological and cultural diversity, 10 min Q&A and/or related activity to do after
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45 minutes for Grade 6 - 12: Let's talk. We can focus on the story and its themes, as picture books provide a great way to engage middle grade and older readers in ELA, physical sciences and social sciences as well as current issues and events, or we can focus on the craft of writing and revision and the author's journey.
Please note that I can visit virtually via Skype and Zoom, and I am willing to look at other platforms as needed. I advise a test run prior to any scheduled events!
Please also be aware that I am the author of The Wall and the Wild as well as other texts. I am NOT the illustrator. That accolade goes to the remarkable Katie Rewse. I can talk about the role of illustration from the author's perspective and demonstrate some basic picture book thumbnail and dummy development.
Want to Talk More or Schedule a Virtual Visit?
Fantabulous! (One day that word will be in dictionaries, I swear it.) Please complete the Contact form, and note in your message the length, age group, and general themes/topics in which you are interested as well as your location and time zone.
Thank you for taking an interest in Ana and the Wild!
