Category: Ontario-based

Vitalis, Jessica (Waterloo, ON)

Rates: Writer’s Union, CANSCAIP, SCBWI. All sessions 45-60 minutes. Virtual $250. In-person $300 (available in Kitchener/Waterloo and GTA only). Half-day $550 (two sessions, available in Kitchener/Waterloo and GTA only). Full day $800 (up to three sessions). Half and full days may be split between nearby schools on the same day. Prices quoted do not include travel costs or HST.

JJESSICA VITALIS is an award-winning, Columbia MBA-wielding middle grade author with Greenwillow/HarperCollins. Her books have been translated into three languages, received multiple starred reviews, been designated as Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selections, and appeared on “Best Book” lists for Kirkus and CCBC. Coyote Queen won the Reading the West Book Award, the High Plains Literary Award, and the Women Writing the West 2024 WILLA Literary Award in Children’s Fiction and Non-Fiction. Her latest novel, Unsinkable Cayenne, is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection, a NCTE Notable Verse Novel, and was featured as a best new release by Parade Magazine. Jessica has American and Canadian citizenship; she currently lives and writes in Ontario but speaks at schools, conferences, and festivals all over North America.

  • Unsinkable Cayenne is a NCTE 2025 Notable Verse Novel
  • Coyote Queen is a Reading the West Book Award winner
  • Coyote Queen is a winner of the High Plains Book Award
  • Coyote Queen won the Women Writing the West 2024 WILLA Book Award for Children’s Fiction and Non-Fiction

When she’s not writing, Jessica’s favorite activity is talking about writing; her presentations are best suited for students grades four and up (and adults of any age). She is also available for festivals, conferences, and keynote speeches and can speak to issues ranging from SEL topics to grief and healing.

Jessica Vitalis 2
Jessica Vitalis

Offerings include (but are not limited to):

The Story Behind the Story: This interactive presentation includes the inspiration behind Jessica’s books, a short reading, stories of tenacity and perseverance related to her unusual childhood and 13-year journey to publication, and a peek at the revision process (including the most important tool in her writer’s toolbox!). Q&A included. For small or large groups (grades 4+).

Stand Out From The Crowd: Creating Compelling Characters: In this hands-on writing workshop, participants look at what makes characters come alive in readers’ hearts and minds and learn how to develop memorable characters using the author’s secret technique to show and not tell. For smaller groups (ages 10 to adult).

The Building Blocks of Story: Using the building blocks of story, we’ll work through a flexible pre-writing strategy that provides authors with a framework to draft a novel without bogging them down or making the drafting process feel too prescriptive. For small or large groups (adults only).

“Jessica’s presentation was so inspiring and energizing for our fifth and sixth grade students! Her stories––both on and off the page––are magnetic. A couple of our more reluctant learners sought Jessica out after the talk to connect with her and have their photos takes. What a wonderful celebration of reading and writing!” -Elementary school librarian

“Jessica did a beautiful presentation for my 7th grade reading classes. My students were engrossed! At the end, she answered all of their questions about being an author, the writing process, and everything in between! It was such a fantastic experience for my students!” – 7th Grade Teacher

“[Jessica’s] presentation totally changed my life! It was so incredibly helpful and exactly what I needed for my writing.” -Workshop attendee

Maximum group size: No limit on large group offerings. Smaller group offerings are better suited for individual school classes or conference breakout sessions.

Venues: Flexible as long as a microphone and projection screen are available.

Tech Requirements: Microphone (when necessary), digital projector and screen (most presentations are accompanied by PowerPoint slides; Jessica can either hook up with her laptop or bring in a flash drive), water, and lunch (for full day visits).

Jessica looks forward to connecting with you!

Contact Jessica to book a visit:

    Lewis, Amanda West (Perth, ON)

    Member of The Writer’s Union of Canada; Society of Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators (SCBWI); Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators & Performers (CANSCAIP); Access Copyright; MASC Artist/Instructor

    Amanda’s rates: In-person workshops: $400 for one session, $625 for two, $850 for three.  Virtual presentations: $300 for one session, $525 for two. No travel costs within GTA or Eastern Ontario. $.50/km west of Toronto, north of Ottawa.

    Each program is adapted to the needs of the class/group.

    CCBC Book Awards: Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People nominee

    Amanda West Lewis combines careers as a writer, theatre artist, and calligrapher. She is the author of ten books for youth and young readers, including three-starred A Planet is a Poem, Focus Click Wind, (listed as one of the Best Books of 2023 by The Globe and Mail),and the semi-autobiographical novel These Are Not the Words, (recommended by the American League of Poets as recommended reading in 2022.)

    Amanda’s books have been nominated for the Silver Birch Award, the Red Cedar Award and the Violet Downey IODE Award.  She has an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts.

    In her theatre career, Amanda has acted, directed, produced, and written for theatre, as well as founded The Ottawa Children’s Theatre, a school dedicated to theatre education for young people. Her calligraphic artwork has been exhibited in numerous shows and she has written books on calligraphy and the development of writing.

    Amanda teaches writing, theatre, and calligraphy to people of all ages, in schools and libraries across Canada.

    Born in New York City, Amanda moved with her mother to Toronto, Canada as a teenager. She now lives with her husband, writer Tim Wynne-Jones, in the woods near Perth, Ontario, where they raised their three children.

    Author Readings/Presentations

     “A PLANET IS A POEM” A Cross-Curriculum Workshop combining Science and Literary Arts (Grades 1 – 5)

    • EUREKA! 2024 Excellence in Children’s Non-Fiction Award, California Reading Association HONOR BOOK;
    • NCTE Notable Poetry Book;
    • Cybils Award nominee 2024;
    • School Library Journal Best Poetry Books 2024

    This unique workshop combines Science AND Writing! Working with the book A Planet is a Poem, we’ll explore the solar system through poetry. What is a poem? How do planetary scientists use metaphors to explore big ideas? Why did I pair Saturn with a Sestina poem form? What’s a Companion poem, and why does it work for Pluto and Charon? We’ll take a deep dive into our solar system, talk about some of the poetic and magical things we can discover there, and write poems based on our discoveries.

    Equipment And Other Requirements: A projector compatible with a computer for a memory stick. A flip chart or white board.

    WRITING FROM MEMORY: A Poetry Writing Workshop (Grades 1 – 12/sec V)

    Memories are made of small moments that can form the basis for new story ideas. In this collaborative workshop, we’ll start with the writing prompt: “What is your earliest memory?” Together, we’ll create a series of group poems that are both specific and personal. We’ll also look at examples of how this same memory prompt inspired the verse novel “These Are Not the Words.”

    The workshop explores ways that our memories and dreams can spark ideas and springboard us into larger writing projects.

    Equipment and other requirements: A projector compatible with a computer for a memory stick. A flip chart or white board. Writing utensils.

    “CONFLICT FROM BOTH SIDES” A Cross-Curriculum Workshop combining History and Literary Arts (Grades 5 – 12/ sec V)

    In “Conflict from Both Sides,” the focus is on an empathetic understanding of World War 2. Looking at the lives of British and German children, we’ll explore true stories of young people in England, Germany, the United States, and Canada who had to face the challenges of World War 2 and the Vietnam War. Working with the novels September 17 , The Pact,  and Focus. Click. Wind, we’ll discuss the impact of propaganda, indoctrination, racism, and survival.

    Equipment And Other Requirements: A projector compatible with a computer for a memory stick. Writing utensils

    “A LENS ON THE PRESENT” A Cross-Curriculum Workshop combining History and Literary Arts (Grades 7 – 12/ sec V)

    Opening a window into the past gives us an understanding of our present moment. Using the YA novel Focus. Click. Wind, we’ll look at some of the reasons behind political activism in 1968 and draw parallels between 1968 and contemporary political movements. Looking at the past shows us there are reasons to be optimistic and hopeful about our own future. 

    Equipment and other requirements: A projector compatible with a computer for a memory stick. Writing utensils.

     “WHAT’S BEYOND?” A Cross-Curriculum Workshop Combining Literary Arts and Theatre Arts (Grades 7 – 12. sec V)

    We can learn a lot about a character by what they don’t say. Conveying the space between words –– the pauses in life –– is an essential skill for any writer. This unique, interactive workshop combines theatre and writing skills. Drawing on improvisation and drama games, we’ll explore character motivation, points of view and dialogue as we discover the hidden meaning beyond the words.

    Equipment and other requirements: A large pace to move around in. Writing utensils.

     “ILLUMINATED LETTERS” A Cross-Curriculum Workshop Combining Literary Arts and Visual Arts (Grades 5 – 12/ sec V)

    This workshop helps to develop a love and passion for letters by combining writing skills with artwork.  

    The workshop starts by writing simple poems based on participants’ names. Then, we’ll learn how to draw Versal letters in the style of 15th Century Books of Hours. These illuminated letters will be used to create a uniquely decorated poem. Equipment and other requirements: Two-session workshop. A projector compatible with a computer for a memory stick. A flip chart or white board. Paper and pencils.

    Contact Amanda to book a visit:

      Miskonoodinkwe Smith, Christine (Toronto, ON)

      Miskonoodinkwe Smith, Christine

      Indigenous Editor’s Association, longlisted for the First Nations Community Reads Program, ANDPVA National Signature Online Event 2022.

      Presentation Rates: 250.00 for one session, $450.00 for two, $675.00 for three, $1,000 for full day. Travel fee $.50/km if outside of Toronto. I don’t drive and would require funding for train or bus, plus Uber if available.

      Virtual Visit Fees range from $200-$250

      Christine Miskonoodinkwe-Smith- is a Saulteaux woman from Peguis First Nation and the author of “These Are the Stories: Memories of a 60s Scoop Survivor”. She is an author, editor, writer, and journalist who graduated from the University of Toronto with a specialization in Aboriginal Studies in June 2011 and went on to receive her Master’s in Education in Social Justice in June 2017. Her first non-fiction story “Choosing the Path to Healing” appeared in the 2006 anthology Growing Up Girl: An Anthology of Voices from Marginalized Spaces. She has written for the Native Canadian, Anishinabek News, Windspeaker, FNH Magazine, New Tribe Magazine, Muskrat Magazine and the Piker Press. She has also co-edited the anthology Bawaajigan with fellow Indigenous writer Nathan Niigan Noodin Adler.

      these-are-the-stories-Miskonoodinkwe-Smith-Christine.jpg

      Readings, Talks on Healing, Writing

      Preferred Venues- small spaces, libraries, café’s etc

      Preferred Audience Size-10-25 people, more if comfortable

      Tech requirements- microphone, sound system

      Contact Chrissy Miskonoodinkwe Smith:

        Macaulay, Regan W. H. (Toronto, ON)

        Member of the Writer’s Union, CANSCAIP, Storylines Trust, SCBWI, IAAMB, and the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television. Multi-awards, including Literary Classics Book Awards (Silver), Purple Dragonfly Book Awards, Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards, Canada Book Awards, Finalist for Best Book Awards, Wishing Shelf Book Awards for my 8 picture books so far. Ages 5 – 8/Kindergarten – Grade 3. Author of picture books and middle grade books.

        $200 for one in-person reading, Q&A, and prepared presentation, plus travel ($15 within Toronto, cost of return ticket on a case-by-case basis for outside of Toronto within southern Ontario—in-person visits will depend on ease of travel to the location). All activity PDFs and book order forms are included and emailed in advance of the scheduled visit.

        $150 for one virtual reading, Q&A, and prepared presentation. All activity PDFs and book order forms are included and emailed in advance of the scheduled visit.

        Regan has been a published children’s book author since 2015, and has been doing in person class presentations as her schedule has permitted since 2018. In 2020, she pivoted to virtual presentations. Because of her commitment to writing, her canine and feline massage therapy business, and marketing her three businesses, she is only available for 1-2 class presentations in one day. She is now also expanding to include more school and library visits.

        Presentations according to book and Grades:

        Peter Little Wing (Gr. 4 – 6):

        Peter, a captive Southern Fiordland tokoeka kiwi, and his friends from the National Aquarium—Onion, a little blue penguin with an inner ear imbalance; Tim, a tuatara with Generalized Anxiety Disorder; and Rangi, a kea with clipped wings—embark on a quest through the unfamiliar wilderness of New Zealand in search of three ingredients needed to create an elixir to cure Peter’s ailing grandfather. Together, they traverse the length of the South Island of Aotearoa, all the way across the Cook Strait and back home to the North Island. They learn what they are all capable of in the wild of the wop wops, and what the world beyond the “Wall of Shadows” of Peter’s habitat is all about.

        After a reading of Chapter 1, plus a Q&A, I have a keynote presentation which will include information about the species represented by the main characters (kiwi, little blue penguins, tuatara, kea, brushtail possums and Green and Golden Bell frog), as well as a few other NZ species of interest. Included is information about New Zealand itself, and the locations mentioned in the book (Napier/Hawke’s Bay, Queenstown, Haast Pass, Fox Glacier, Lake Matheson, Punakaiki, Mount Richmond Forest Park, the Wairau river, Picton/Marlborough region, and Wellington).

        There is also the opportunity for your students to do their own presentations and project assignments and an optional NZ/British vocabulary/expression discussion. I am available to return to watch and review student presentations (extra $100 plus travel fee).

        Along with book order forms, I can also send a PDF of optional projects and presentations the students can do. The approximate length of the reading, Q&A and key note presentation is 60 minutes.

        Dog Band (Gr. 1 & 2): In this story, a newly formed band comprised of dogs ask their group of diverse friends—from dogs to frogs—what their favourite music genre is as they decide what kind of music they want the band to play.

        After the reading of the story, I have a keynote presentation that includes a bit of information on some of the real life versions of the main characters, along with some background on their (dog/cat) breeds; information about types of musical instruments, including brass, percussion, strings, keyboards, and woodwinds (sound samples are included). I then give a little introduction and discussion of each of the musical genres presented in the book, including: rock, jazz, hip hop, folk, reggae, opera, swing/big band, rock & roll, blues, country, musical theatre, classical.

        Easy and fun activities are included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: five colouring pages, two drawing pages, maze, name the members of the band, and postcard. The approximate length of the reading, Q&A, and presentation is 30 minutes.

        Chloe the Unfeathered Parrot (Gr. 1, 2 & 3): This tale is based on a true story, and a true parrot, and the people at the Parrot Sanctuary who help this near-featherless parrot find her forever flock.

        After reading, I have a keynote presentation on parrots and parrot rescue. We’ll talk a little bit about the real Parrot Sanctuary, some of the issues presented in the book (Why did Chloe start plucking her own feathers? Why was her previous owner’s home and lifestyle not the right fit for her?), a little bit about the real Chloe, the other parrots mentioned in the book, facts about different kinds of parrots (those that are sometimes kept as pets, and those that are only in the wild), diagram of a parrot’s wing, set up and care for pet parrots, and optional extras like “what is an orthinologist?” Also optional, presentations that the students can do (make a poster, make a diorama, raising awareness certificate).

        Easy and fun activities are included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: five colouring pages, two drawing pages, maze, name the parrot, and postcard. The approximate length of the reading, Q&A, and presentation is 30-45 minutes.

        For an additional $100, plus travel (Toronto area only), a 15-20 minute visit from volunteers and one or more parrots from The Parrot Sanctuary can be included after my reading, Q&A, and presentation. And for an additional $50, there is also the option to include a parrot toy making session (15 minutes), which the parrots can take away with them (and share them with the other parrots at The Parrot Sanctuary). This additional $100 or 150 is donated directly to The Parrot Sanctuary. (Please note that if the parrot visit option is chosen, all efforts will be made to keep the parrots “nut free” but that parents with children who have nut allergies should be made aware ahead of the visit).

        Tamara Turtle’s Life So Far (Grades 2 & 3): Through the eyes of one Red-eared Slider turtle, this story explains why pet turtles should never be impulse purchases, and why they should not be released into the wild.

        After the reading of the story, I have a keynote presentation that includes discussion/comparison of portions of the story (i.e. What does the Painted turtle mean when she says the wrong kind of animal in the wrong place can throw everything off?); optional exercise—dividing into groups to make lists of what was learned from the book, and questions they still have; basic facts about Red-eared Slider turtles; Red-eared Slider key features; turtles you might find in pet stores; turtles native to Ontario; map of Red-eared Slider distribution; map showing where they have “invaded” Ontario; pet turtle set up equipment; what a pet Red-eared Slider needs to be happy & healthy in your home; pet turtle foods and “human foods” that they can and cannot eat; approximate (and simple) budget for keeping a pet turtle (to discourage impulse buying or adopting); reasons people sometimes give up their pet turtles and what they should do; what is a herpetologist?; optional vocabulary and activities (make a poster, make a diorama, raising awareness certificate).

        Easy and fun activities included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: four colouring pages, a maze, picture drawing. The length of this presentation can be adjusted to best suit your class, whether you need to fill an hour or half an hour.

        For an additional $100, plus travel if outside Toronto (and depending on whether there is a volunteer available in your region—contact me to discuss options), a 15-20 minute visit from one of the volunteers and her Red-eared Slider turtle from Little RES Q Reptile Rescue can be included after my reading, Q&A, and presentation. Afterwards, there is also the option to include a “turtle” activity session. This additional $100 is donated directly to Little RES Q

        Beverlee Beaz the Brown Burmese (Gr. K, 1 & 2): This story is about a Burmese cat whose creative imagination games take her on wonderful adventures. 

        After the reading of the story, I have a keynote presentation that includes a little bit of background on the origins of the Burmese cat; examples of Beverlee’s imagination games; then the kids get a chance to reimagine different animals!

        Easy and fun activities included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: five colouring pages, a story writing page, drawing pages, and a maze. The approximate length of the reading, Q&A, and presentation is 20-30 minutes.

        Alternate Class Visit ($50 extra): Picture book writing and illustration workshop (with reading of Beverlee Beaz the Brown Burmese) for Grades 2 through to 6

        • Objective: To allow kids to discover the ins and outs of creating their very own picture books from both sides, authorship and illustration
        • My visit: After a reading of Beverlee Beaz the Brown Burmese, I take the students through the process of how the book was created—from writing the story, to planning the illustrations, working with the illustrator, then putting the book together with the publisher. Students will see the very first edition of Beverlee—my Grade 6 picture book writing project overseen by Canadian author Emily Hearn, allowing them to see how far a “little writing project” can go. This visit goes hand-in-hand with a picture book writing and illustrating project that the students will undertake. They can begin either before my visit, during my visit (after my presentation), or after my visit, but whatever stage of the process you want my visit to take place, the students’ picture book project would unfold as follows:

        Mixter Twizzle’s Breakfast (Gr. K, 1 & 2): This story is about an odd, red, round-shaped mischievous creature living at Riverdale Farm in Toronto, who learns the error of his mischievous ways when he accidentally hatches a baby chick.

        After the reading of the story, I have a keynote presentation that includes some background information about Riverdale Farm (in Toronto, where the story is set); short presentations on some of the farm animals present in the story.

        Easy and fun activities included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: three colouring pages, maze, drawing page, make a poster, and parts of a chicken. The approximate length of the reading, Q&A, and presentation is 30 minutes.

        Libby the Lobivia Jajoiana (Gr. 2 & 3): This story is about a cactus plant who learns that what makes her different also makes her very special.

        After the reading of the story, I have a keynote presentation that includes information and background on Libby’s (lobivia jajoiana cactus) and Violet’s (African Violets) native habitats; violets in space trivia; cactus uniqueness and traits (how they evolved); growing a cactus or violet at home. Easy and fun activities included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: three colouring pages, drawing pages, maze, and further to growing a cactus at home (full instructions through Cactus Caffeine’s YouTube channel). The approximate length of the reading, Q&A, and presentation is 30 minutes.

        For an additional $150 the full reading and presentation of Libby the Lobivia Jajoiana can be booked at Allan Gardens on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Friday. After the reading, presentations, and Q&A, teachers and students are invited to stroll through the greenhouses (especially the cactus enclosure!). Total time available in the greenhouses is 2 hours (including reading and presentation). Please note that there is a playground located in the park outside the greenhouses, which makes for a great “waiting space” for staff and students prior to the visit.

        Sloth the Lazy Dragon (Gr. K, 1 & 2): In this story, a brave little dwarf helps Sloth get in shape by teaching the dragon about nutrition and exercise.

        After the reading of the story, I have a keynote presentation that includes examples of healthy foods; examples of exercise (which can be turned into an interactive activity); which are the healthier food choices discussion.

        Easy and fun activities included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: make a poster, name some vegetables, name some fruit, circle healthy food choices, two colouring pages, two drawing pages, maze.

        Merry Myrrh the Christmas Bat (Gr. K, 1 & 2): In this story, Myrrh experiences the wonders of his first Christmas, as well as the kindness of the farm family that find him in their home.

        After the reading of the story, I have a keynote presentation that includes information about the little brown bat, including North American distribution map; information about white-nose syndrome (which adversely affects many bats); frequently asked questions about bats answered; why bats are so important to our ecosystem.

        Easy and fun activities included in the PDF I email in advance, along with book order forms: three colouring pages, parts of a bat sheet, maze, make a poster, and draw the four seasons. The approximate length of the reading, Q&A, and presentation is 30 minutes.

        I prefer groups of no more than two classes (of approximately 30 students per class). Any venue is fine (in-person) provided there is a projector and screen available. I have a MacBook Air M1 2020, or iPad Pro first generation with an HDMI adaptor for each. I can also provide the files on a USB thumb drive. If absolutely necessary, I do have an Epson projector, but I do not have a screen. PDFs of activities and book order forms will be sent by email in advance. It is up to you whether you prefer to pass these forms or activities on to students/parents by email, or print out and photocopy for your class.

        Contact Regan:

          Bailey, Jen Lynn (Ottawa, ON)

          Photo Credit: Sam Bond Photography

          Jen Lynn Bailey is an award-winning children’s author and certified Ontario elementary teacher. She is the recipient of the 2023 Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children’s Book Award, picture book category, for her debut picture book This is the Boat that Ben Built (illustrated by Maggie Zeng, published by Pajama Press 2022).

          Member of The Writers’ Union of Canada, the Ontario College of Teachers, the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) Canada, the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), and the Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers (CANSCAIP). English language presentations and workshops for grades K-6; all ages on request.

          In-person rates for a classroom visit (40- to 60-minute sessions): $275 for one, $400 for two, $530 for three, $680 for a full day (4 sessions). For larger presentations with up to 100 students in the same or adjacent grade level(s): $375 for a 45- to 60-minute presentation. Published fees are for schools; fees for other settings are subject to change. Venues over 25 km from Ottawa centre will be charged a travel fee for artist’s transportation costs.

          Virtual visit fees are $150 for one 45-minute session (or two 25-minute sessions for kindergarten students); $125 for each additional session the same day.

          Jen is an experienced teacher, workshop leader, and presenter who loves introducing kids to the animals of the northern river ecosystem through fun, interactive sessions. She also enjoys teaching about writing and about how picture books are made. She will gladly collaborate with teachers and/or librarians to customize visits to meet the children’s interests and the teachers’ curriculum requirements. Students and staff have the option to order personalized, signed books which will be delivered to their school. Jen will provide ordering instructions.

          Here are some sample presentations, which each include an author intro and Q&A: 

          This is the Boat that Ben Built – Participatory Reading & Activities Age level: K – grade 1; Duration: two 25-minute sessions. Appropriate for up to 30 students for optimal engagement.

          The first 25-minute session introduces kids to the northern river ecosystem in a fun participatory reading session of This is the Boat that Ben Built. Jen also discusses idea generation and the inspiration for the story. The second 25-minute session includes a generative alliteration activity and an animal size classification activity.

          Key concepts: ecology, species diversity, food webs, STEM, poetry

          Key themes: curiosity, natural world, exploration

          Explore a Book! Explore an Ecosystem! Age level: Grades 2-6; Duration: 45-60 minutes. Appropriate for classroom visits or larger venues.

          Students will explore the picture book This is the Boat that Ben Built through the lens of a reader, writer, scientist, and artist. They’ll discover how the author and illustrator work together to create a picture book, and how the animals of the northern river ecosystem are interconnected in the story and real world.

          Key concepts: ecology, species diversity, food webs, STEM, picture book creation, writing process, cumulative stories, science

          Key themes: curiosity, natural world, exploration

          Levels: primary, junior, grade 2, grade 3, grade 4, grade 5, grade 6

          Writer’s Workshops Age level: K – grade 6; Duration: 45-60 minutes (shorter for kindergarten). Appropriate for visits with up to 30 students.

          Animals as Story Starters: Story ideas come from our real-world experiences with people, places, and things. One great source of inspiration is animals in their natural environments. In this workshop, we’ll use animal behaviours, habitats, and adaptations to generate story characters, settings, and conflicts.

          Witty Words, Awesome Animals: A Poetry Workshop: Kids will use their “poetry toolkits” to uncover meaning and music in a variety of animal poems, then generate their own.  For K-4, the emphasis will be on descriptive words, comparisons and repeated letter sounds; in grades 5-6 more specific poetic techniques will be identified and explored (e.g., similes and metaphors, alliteration, consonance, assonance, onomatopoeia)

          If you are interested in writing workshops for students in grades 7 – 8, secondary school, or college, or in workshops for adults, please contact Jen about your group’s needs. Jen offers picture book manuscript critiques as well.

          Library Storytime Age level: preschool – grade 1; duration 30-45 minutes

          Following a participatory reading of This is the Boat that Ben Built, Jen will lead kids in a simple craft about the animals in the northern river ecosystem. Digital templates will be provided in advance; craft supplies to be provided by the library.

          General Equipment needs: For in-person visits, laptop with PowerPoint or Google Slides (Jen will bring her own laptop if it can be connected to school projector, otherwise she will bring a USB stick), digital projector and screen for presentation, microphone if the space is larger than a classroom, chair or stool. For virtual visits, school Zoom account (or similar). Student supplies depend on chosen session and will be discussed prior to visit. Teacher or librarian must be present for all presentations, virtual or in-person.

          Jen offers picture book manuscript critiques as well.

          Contact Jen:

            Sadler, Judy-Ann (London, Ontario)

            Judy-Ann Sadler (London, Ontario) is a member of The Writers’ Union of Canada, CANSCAIP, and Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC). She presents (in English) to students in JK to grade 5 and beyond.

            Rates:

            • 1 session: $300
            • 2 sessions: $525
            • 3 sessions: $675
            • 4 sessions: $800

            These rates include craft supplies for 50 students per 1-hour session. Travel costs are extra. No HST. Rates for virtual visits are negotiable.

            Judy-Ann Sadler is the bestselling author of over 25 books for children that have sold over a million copies in various languages around the world.

            Ever since Judy-Ann can remember, she has loved to read, write and make things. She feels passionate about sharing stories and crafts with children. She knows that using your imagination and working with your hands encourages creativity, curiosity, resourcefulness, patience, passion and generosity. She feels that these are all qualities our children will need to help make the world a better place!

            Judy-Ann has presented to, and made crafts with, tens of thousands of children at schools, libraries and festivals. Here are a few examples of what she does during a presentation, but she always tailors her presentations to the needs of the students. She loves to keep her audience engaged and excited about books, crafts and stories!

            JK- grade 1: Read a picture book, show other books, show crafts from some of her books, take questions, make a craft.

            Grade 2-3: Read one of her picture books, show other books, show lots of crafts and chat about the joy of making things, answer questions, make a craft.

            Grade 4-5: Talk about and show samples of the many steps involved in putting together a good book, read a story, show her books and crafts, answer questions and hear about the creative activities and writing projects of the students. Make a craft!

            For presentation set-up, Judy-Ann requires a couple of tables at the front of the room, and tables with chairs for the students. She will present to a maximum of 50 students/two classes per session.

            Contact Judy-Ann to book a visit:

              Hughes, Susan (Toronto, ON)

              Writers Union Member. Canscaip. SCBWI. Fiction & NF, multiple Forest of Reading nominations. Multi awards. Mainly grades K to 6.

              Virtual visit: $200 (plus hst) for one session of 40-50 mins; and $150 for each additional session on the same day. Also, $220 (plus hst) for two back-to-back 30 min sessions with Kinders.

              Walking for Water: How One Boy Stood Up For Gender Equality is shortlisted for the Hackmatack English Non-Fiction Award.

              Susan is an award-winning author of over 30 children’s books (fiction and non-fiction), including picture books, chapter books, middle-grade novels, and YA novels—and even some graphic narratives (picture books and middle-grade). She runs through the local cemetery, where she glimpses coyotes and foxes; was dog- and horse-crazy as a kid; and no matter what’s she’s doing, would usually rather be reading.

              Susan’s books have won and been shortlisted for several awards, including the Silver Birch Express, Silver Birch Non-fiction, Red Maple, Red Cedar Information Book, Hackmatack, Prix des Libraires du Quebec (Jeunesse), Bank Street Best Children’s Books of the Year, TD Canadian Children’s Literature, Diamond Willow). Her books have received starred and recommended reviews from Kirkus, CCBC, CBC Books, Quill & Quire, School Library Journal, Resource Links, The Globe & Mail, CanLit for Little Canadians and CM Magazine.

              Susan loves chatting with young readers about her books, the writing and publishing process, and their own writing projects. Susan will read from one or more of her books, discuss the inspiration for her book and the writing, research, and publishing process, and engage in a lively Q and A with young students.  

              Readings from her book(s), plus Q&A’s with audience (20-30 mins for kinders; 30-50 mins for gr 1 and up)

              Suggestions of picture books for presentations:

              Same Here: The Differences We Share (gr 2 – 5)

              This MG informational picture book introduces readers to kids from around the world, the lives they lead, and the common needs that unite them. The child-centered narrative and evocative illustrations explore how education, family, free time, and other aspects of daily life look different depending on who you are and where you live.

              Themes: common needs, global connections, equality/equity, diversity, education, communication, socio-economic realities, social studies

              Walking for Water: How One Boy Stood Up for Gender Equality (gr 2 – 5)

              In this inspiring picture book story of individual activism (based on a real boy), Victor recognizes gender inequality when his sister must stop attending school — and decides to do something about it.

              Themes: equality, gender, children taking action, Malawi, fiction/ non-fiction, graphic novel, family, diversity, authenticity, experts, Citizen Kids, global connections

              Carmen and the House That Gaudi Built (gr 1 – 6)

              Carmen Batlló must move to the city, leaving behind her imaginary salamander—but then meets architect Antoni Gaudí. This picture book is inspired by the real Batlló family and the house Gaudí designed for them.

              Themes: fiction versus non-fiction, based on, imaginary friends, architecture, home, nature, moving, Antoni Gaudi, change

              What Happens Next (gr 2 -6)

              This picture book story is told by an unnamed protagonist who, when bullied by a girl at school, confronts the bully in a unique way— helping the bully see the world with a new perspective.

              Themes: bullying, emotions, empathy, non-gendered character, point-of-view, differences and similarities, courage

              Walking in the City with Jane: A Story of Jane Jacobs (gr 3 – 7)

              A fictionalized story of the life of Jane Jacobs, one of the world’s greatest urban thinkers and activists, this picture book is a terrific resource for exploring civic engagement, urban life, and the role of city planning.

              Themes: urban activist, ecosystem, grassroots, observer, perseverance, courage, citizenship, initiative, prison, biography, annual Jane Walks

              Up! How Families Around the World Carry their Little Ones (K to gr 2)

              A celebration of diversity, this non-fiction picture book depicts children being carried in many different ways by various family members in 10 places around the world.

              Themes: family, emotions, empathy, rural/urban, diversity, global connections

              Off to Class: Incredible and Unusual Schools Around the World  (gr 4 to 7)

              In this middle-grade non-fiction book, you’ll travel around the globe to visit some of the world’s most incredible schools (on boats, on train platforms, mobile schools, etc.) and meet the students who attend them.

              Themes: education, equality/equity, tough decisions, diversity, initiative, interviews, citizenship, global connections

              Virtual meetings can be on Zoom, Google meets, or Skype. Audience size: let’s discuss!

              Connect with Susan to book a visit:

                Crawley, Oksanna (Brampton, ON)

                OKSANNA CRAWLEY writes in several genres for kids with humour and heart. Her debut chapter book is Katie Crumble and the Case of the Missing Underwear published by Plumleaf Press. Coming soon from Fitzhenry and Whiteside/Sutherland House is Tom Thomson’s Paintbrush, an informational text about one of Canada’s greatest painters. She co-wrote and co-illustrated the picture book, Pirate Glitterbeard, with her daughter, Larissa. Oksanna has also written and illustrated over 30 early readers—the Super Hammy series—from Blueberry Hill Books of Manitoba. She is a retired teacher and former radio journalist. Born in Val d’Or, Québec, Oksanna lives in Kincardine, Ontario with her family.  SCBWI, TWUC, CANSCAIP

                Virtual presentation (30 minutes or 1 hour) $100.00

                In-person presentation (1- 2 hours)  $250.00 

                Katie Crumble and the Case of the Missing Underwear is featured on the CBC Spring Reading List 2025, and on the Telling Tales 2025 Reading List.

                Oksanna is the co-author and illustrator of the picture book, PIRATE GLITTERBEARD, published by Rebel Mountain Press.

                “My class giggled with delight as I read this book to them. They loved the whimsical characters and the vibrant pictures. Pirate Glitterbeard breaks down all the stereotypes of how a pirate should act and look. This book should definitely be on the shelves of EVERY classroom. Highly recommended.” ~Karen Williams teacher/librarian

                Oksanna has also written a non-fiction book for children about her favourite Canadian artist, Tom Thomson, which will be published in 2024 by Fitzhenry and Whiteside.

                A series of over 30 books for early readers, SUPER HAMMY’S ADVENTURES, which she wrote and illustrated is available from Blueberry Hill Books.

                Oksanna is a retired teacher and would be happy to tailor her presentation to the needs of your students. She loves to talk about how a book comes to life from idea to final product, how to approach illustrating a picture book from thumbnail sketch to final illustration, how to construct or plot a story, how to write a non-fiction book, etc.

                School Presentations include a PowerPoint presentation

                Contact Oksanna to book a visit:

                  McLellan, Stephanie Simpson (Newmarket, ON)

                  Writers Union Member. English. Fiction (Picture Book and Mid Grade), Mr. Christie Award winner, Ruth Schwartz Award Winner, 2022 Blue Spruce Award Honour Book. Grades K-4 and Grades 5-8.

                  In-Person Visits: $300 plus HST for 1 session, $500 for 2, $750 for 3 and $1000 for 4, + travel (50 cents per kilometre, round-trip for SW ON).

                  Stephanie is the award-winning author of six picture books books, a mid-grade novel and a unique picture book-first reader hybrid. She reviewed children’s books for twelve years for Today’s Parent magazine (for which she got to interview the legendary Maurice Sendak!), operated an online bookstore for a few years called Neverending Stories, and wrote several scripts for the gemini-nominated children’s television series Roll Play (on Treehouse).

                  Her books have won and been shortlisted for several awards (Mr. Christie Award, Ruth Schwartz Award, Chocolate Lily Award, CNIB Tiny Torgi Award, Crystal Kite Award and Blue Spruce Award) and have received starred and recommended reviews from Kirkus, CCBC, CBC Books, Quill & Quire, School Library Journal, Resource Links, TVO Kids, Chickadee Magazine, The Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, National Post, City Parent, CanLit for Little Canadians and CM Magazine.

                  A passionate promoter of literacy, Stephanie has toured twice for TD Canadian Children’s Book Week: to Labrador in 2014 and Northwest Territories in 2018. Surrounding the release of her 2017 picture book, The Christmas Wind, Stephanie worked with almost 1,700 primary students in every province and territory of Canada (plus one school in Australia) on a unique literacy initiative that resulted in over 13,000 student drawings of her characters Jo, Murdock and the wind. Widely profiled by CBC, The Christmas Wind Story Project involved the Canadian Children’s Book Centre in the spring of 2016 and was a top 10 finalist in the 2016 CST Inspired Minds Learning Project Contest.

                  Presentation Description

                  During Stephanie’s school presentations for grades K-4, she encourages children to look for and understand their own creativity by sharing the stories behind her stories, how these stories/ideas turn into books, and what it’s like to write for a living. Specifically, she has four goals with each school presentation:

                  • To entertain students with a dramatic reading of her books so they will come to know and care about her characters and about the value of story
                  • To stir the writer/creator inside each student by sharing the stories behind her stories, thus empowering them to see the connection between their own lives and their own potential works of art
                  • To create a natural bridge to relevant, valuable and interesting learning (e.g.Hoogie in the Middle – a simile exercise; Leon’s Song – a mini science quiz on how frogs survive the winter)
                  • To give students a sense of what goes into the creation of a book (the illustrator, the publisher, the ideas) and what it’s like to write for a living 

                  For grades 5-8, Stephanie will focus on her mid grade novel Sully, Messed Up to explore themes of self-esteem, identity, life choices, social-emotional learning and bullying.

                  Ahead of each school visit Stephanie creates a school specific page on her website to help teachers and students prepare for her visit.

                  Maximum group size: 50-60 for optimum interaction 

                  Equipment required: a table, an easel (for presentation boards), water, microphone for larger groups or in the gym.

                  Contact Stephanie to book a visit:

                    Cohen, Tziporah (Toronto, ON)

                    Tziporah Cohen

                    Tziporah Cohen. Toronto, Ontario. Writers’ Union Member. English. Grades SK-3 (picture book presentations), Grade 4-8 (novel presentations).

                    Virtual rates: $200 per session (45-60 min). In-person rates: $275 for one session (45-60 minutes), $200 each for additional visits up to four. Full day visits can include eating lunch with small group of interested older students. Kindergarten visits can be split into two 25 min visits with different classes. No travel costs within City of Toronto; GTA (excluding City of Toronto) $25 per 30 min car travel, rounded up. 

                    Tziporah is the author of three picture books:  ON THE CORNER OF CHOCOLATE AVENUE: HOW MILTON HERSHEY BROUGHT MILK CHOCOLATE TO AMERICA (December 2022), the award-winning wordless picture book AFIKOMEN (March 2023) and CITY BEET (March 2023). She is also the author of the award-winning middle grade novel, NO VACANCY, published in September 2020.

                    Middle Grade Novel Presentations

                    • Author’s Journey: How do you go from writer to author? Learn the origin story of NO VACANCY and all the steps from beginning to publication: from idea to first draft and revisions, to acquisition, editing and copy editing, cover design and book-on-the-shelf! Includes photos from the entire process and reading of a chapter from the book. (60 minutes, Grades 4-7, in-person or virtual)
                    • Revision, Revision, Revision! What are the steps in going from first draft to finished story? Get an inside view on the author’s revisions of NO VACANCY, both before and after acquisition by the publisher. Includes specific examples of revision strategies (using strong verbs; show, don’t tell; adding detail; use of outlines and calendars; eliminating writing quirks, etc) with photos of manuscript. Includes reading of a chapter of the book. This presentation works best if students have read the book, but not required. (60 minutes, Grades 4-7, in person or virtual)

                    Picture Book Presentations

                    • Let’s Talk About Chocolate! Where does chocolate come from? Learn about where and how cacao beans grow and how they are turned into the chocolate we all love, followed by a reading ON THE CORNER OF CHOCOLATE AVENUE: HOW MILTON HERSHEY BROUGHT MILK CHOCOLATE TO AMERICA. (45 minutes, Grades JK-2, in person or virtual)
                    • How Do Picture Books Get Made? Using ON THE CORNER OF CHOCOLATE AVENUE or CITY BEET, we’ll talk about how a picture book gets made, from idea to research, first draft to revision, illustration to printing, plus the various people involved in the process, including the writer and illustrator, editor, book designer, publicist and more.  Includes a reading of either book and Q&A time. (45 minutes, Grades 1-3, can be combined with Let’s Talk About Chocolate for total of 60 minutes, in-person or virtual)
                    • Let’s Make a Picture Book Workshop! Why are picture books always 32 or 40 pages in length? What is the author’s job and what is the illustrator’s? Who decides if the characters will be people or animals? We’ll answer these questions and more and then, using one of the author’s manuscripts, the students will illustrate the words and put them together to make their own picture book for the classroom library. Includes a reading of any of author’s picture books. (45-60 minutes, Grades 3-4, in-person only)

                    Size limits: 100 for virtual presentations, 30 for in-person visits (60 for Reading/Q&A)

                    Equipment: For virtual visits, Skype or school Zoom account. For in-person visits, laptop with Powerpoint, (can bring own laptop if it can be connected to school projector, otherwise will bring USB stick), projector and screen for Power Point presentation, table, microphone if space larger than classroom, glass of water. Teacher or librarian must be present for all presentations, virtual or in-person.

                    Contact Tziporah to book a visit: