Contact my agent:

Sarah Davies
Greenhouse Litarary Agency
www.greenhouseliterary.com

School Visits and Presentations

As a former school librarian and writer-in-residence I love visiting schools and working with young writers. Here are some of the presentations I give:

For Students K-8

Soar with Skype

All ages

(20 minutes)

In 1911, most little girls played hopscotch and jacks but Elinor Smith wanted more. Her grit and determination inspired me to soar as a pilot and a writer. Come fly with me with this free Skype visit! Ideal for scout troop badge work. Contact me for technical and logistical requirements.

It’s My Story And I’m Sticking To It

Grades K-8

(30 minutes for younger grades, up to a 4 hour writing workshop for older students)

Everyone has a story to tell. We’ll mine memories to discover our own epics, then draft beginnings, middles, and ends.

The Thrill Of The Chase

Grades 2-5

(1 hour)

Research isn’t just educational, it can be thrilling to uncover clues and learn the true story. Tami shares her journey researching the life of Elinor Smith- from the Smithsonian archives to 3000 feet up in the wild blue yonder, to create her picture book biography SOAR, ELINOR!

This presentation can be expanded to a full day biography/women’s history project, with students examining primary sources, conducting mock interviews, preparing an outline, and write a short biography.

Shoot For The Record

Grades 2-5

(1 hour)

Elinor Smith set aviation records for altitude and endurance, many of which still stand today. Tami shares the process Elinor used- evaluating the risks, weighing the benefits, preparing for the task, and accomplishing her goal. She’ll share other world records set by children and students will write their own world record press release.

For Adults

Chase Your Dream

(1 hour)

You’ve always dreamed of writing for children but how do you get started? There are free resources and insider advantages to jumpstart your career as a children’s writer. I’ll lead you on a lively tour of what’s available on line, where to find a critique group, how to submit a manuscript to agents and editors, and how to cope with rejection- and success!

How Do You Know When It’s Ready To Go?

(45 Minutes)

Nearly everyone has a great idea for a children’s book but that doesn’t mean everyone can produce a polished manuscript and make a sale. Avoid novice mistakes and put your best foot forward by following my tips for developing manuscripts that are too good to be ignored.

Occasionally groups have specific needs. I’m happy to tailor a presentation to your group’s interests. Just ask.

Rates

Free! 20 minutes Skype visits

$125 for one presentation, plus travel and expenses, at Washington D.C. or Burlington VT-area schools and conferences

$425 for up to four presentations, plus travel and expenses, at Washington D. C. or Burligton VT-area schools and conferences

For appearances outside of DC or Vermont, if I am already in the area, I will calculate travel expenses based on proximity from my lodgings. If you wish to bring me to your area, please add travel and hotel fee to the prices above.

I offer a sliding scale based on need, so don’t be afraid to ask!

Author visits work best when the students are familiar with writers and their work. I encourage teachers and librarians to make copies of SOAR, ELINOR! available to students in advance of any school visit. If you don’t work with a local bookstore contact me (link to my email) for information about buying books at a discount.