Writer’s Union member. CANSCAIP member. Middle Grade.
In-Person Presentations (45-60 minutes): $300 for 1 session; $250 for each subsequent session up to four sessions in one day. For travel over 50 km, travel fee of $0.50 per km will be added.
Virtual Visits (45-60 minutes): $200 per session. $100 for each additional session on the same day.
Awards & Nominations:
- 2027 Sakura Medal nominee
- 2026 Manitoba Young Reader’s Choice Awards nominee
- 2025 OLA Best Bets
- 2025 Hackmatack Children’s Choice Book Award nominee
- 2025 CCBC Jean Little First-Novel Award nominee
- 2025 IBBY Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities nominee
- 2024 CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
Calyssa Erb is a queer, autistic writer for young readers. Her critically-acclaimed middle grade novel Maya Plays the Part follows an autistic girl attending musical theatre camp for the first time. Diagnosed with autism as an adult, Calyssa is passionate about sharing her journey from writing as a kid to publishing a book as an adult.
Presentations: Her presentations are ideal for grades 4-6 and typically include how she was inspired to write Maya Plays the Part based on her own childhood experiences, including photos of the real-life theatre in Halifax, Nova Scotia, along with behind-the-scenes of her writing and editing process. She is equally comfortable presenting to a single class or an auditorium of multiple grades.
Testimonial: “With slides of herself around the same age as the students holding her ‘first book,’ Calyssa made publishing a novel seem within reach. It is a testament to her talent as a storyteller and a presenter that Calyssa left everyone feeling ready to pursue their creative dreams.” —Chris Reed, Parent Council, Sprucecourt Public School
Writing Workshops: Calyssa can also offer a writing workshop for up to 30 students in grades 4-6 using the idea generation exercise that created Maya Plays the Part.Please reach out for more information and rates.
Venue/Equipment: Library, school auditorium, or classroom preferred. A digital projector, screen, and laptop are required for her in-person presentations. If the venue is larger than a classroom, Calyssa requires a microphone. For writing workshops, participants will required a pen or pencil. A table for supplies is helpful.