Author Visits
and Editorial Appearances

I’m proud to be the author of five books for children and two books for adults, and I love talking to readers and writers of all ages about writing, revision, and publishing. All of the talks described below can be virtual or in-person.

FOR KIDS: My “How to Make a Book” presentation covers ideas, the writing and revision process, and my picture books. It usually lasts about an hour, with questions, and is best for kids in kindergarten through third grade. I can give it multiple times per day.

FOR ADULTS: I have nearly a dozen fully developed presentations at various lengths and on various topics related to writing, editing, and publishing, many of them drawn from The Magic Words. Some of the more popular ones include:

• Purpose, Promise, and Premise (an hour)

• Seventeen Revision Techniques (an hour)

• Creating Compelling Characters (an hour)

• Plot 101 (an hour to two or three hours, depending on how much writing/workshop time is included)

• The Five Keys to a Successful Picture Book Manuscript (three hours)

• The Power of Voice (four hours)

I’m also always happy to do general AMAs or first-pages sessions with writing groups.

My rates are variable but fair. I can go anywhere on public transportation in the New York City tristate area, and I’m frequently in the Kansas City metropolitan area to visit family; I also enjoy traveling beyond those locales. To book a visit, please see the information on my contact page.