Program Topics: Kids or Adults
Welcome Educators!
My program topics include the craft of writing or relating to the research done for my historical novels.
“Hi you most likely do not know me. Eight years ago you spoke to my home-school group about being writers. Now I am one. I don’t have anything published but I have found a love for writing.”
from Matthew (text through Messenger)
If just one student finds joy in writing words and discovers the ability within themselves to expand their imagination and craft stories, then any amount of time I can spend talking about the craft is worth it. I would love to share the joy of writing with your students. Click the Contact Tab above and send me a message.
FEES
Public Libraries & Summer Reading Programs: Free
$100 per day for schools located within the 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle. For schools outside of that area, the fee will be $150 per day plus travel expense, negotiable (overnight stay, if required).
TOPICS:
The Power of WORDS & Basic Story Structure
Based on my Rescue Animal Series, we will talk about the difference between fiction and nonfiction, and how to add emotion to stories. Students will learn to find ideas for a story and how to organize their ideas. This is a fun, interactive program suitable for all ages. Any amount of time can be allotted for this exercise. I will need a projector and smart board. Power point presentation. 20 minutes (or can be adjusted as needed to fit your schedule).
Where do Story Ideas Come From?
Where do writers find story ideas? The “What If” game provides visuals to consider all of the possibilities of using every day happenings to create stories for entertainment.I’ll talk about all of the things writers write. We will create a story spider of ideas, talk about using the five senses in our writing, and craft a fiction story. Armed with the ability to find story ideas in common, every day events, students will discover a new confidence and joy in writing, plus fun writing exercises as time permits.
History of the CHUCK WAGON
Based on my book, KEEP ‘EM FED AND KEEP ‘EM ROLLIN‘, about the history of the chuck wagon along with historic recipes, food on the trail, and hands on items including cowboy gear and cooking utensils. This program is a Google Slides. Length can vary according to your needs.
The Texas Hill Country and the German Texans
Based on research and the series of novels I wrote with German author Manuela Schneider, the Germans who immigrated to Texas gave up everything to start over. Their invfluence and perserverance can still be seen today in many communities such as New Braunfels and Fredericksburg.
I can customize topics for any age and program lengths to meet any special curriculum or needs you might have.
I’d love to visit your school or community library!
Contact: Call my office at 806.655.4046 or email for more information by clicking on the Contact tab above.
Notes of Appreciation!
“You did an awesome job-my kids loved it and I have had several emails from other mom’s telling me their kids are now excited about writing.” LORI CORLEY
Thanks sooooooo much! I liked the article you wrote and I liked playing what if! ~ Hannah
Thank you so much for coming. I love to write, but now I love writing even more! ~ Peyton
Thank you for coming to see us. It was fun writing the stories. ~ Tyler
Thank you for encouraging me to write. ~ Adam
“Thanks so much for sharing with my 6th grade darlings! You did an awesome job and they really enjoyed what you had to say.” DIANNA MELSON, AISD Teacher
Hand written thank you notes with amazing art work: one of my favorite things in this world!
