Memberships: Writer’s Union, Federation of BC Writers, CANSCAIP, CWILL, Connected North facilitator, ProWritingAid Ambassador/facilitator, Sefirot instructor
Some awards and nominations: 10 Best Books of 2010 Globe & Mail, 2x BC Book Prize finalist, 3x USBBY Outstanding International Books Honor List, 2 x Skipping Stones Honor Book, 4x Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection, Canadian Children’s Book Centre, 2x Children’s Literature Roundtables of Canada Information Book Award nomination, Best Bets OLA, Golden Oak Award, First Nation Communities Read Selection in addition to 2x shortlisted, numerous readers choice awards AB, NS, ON, AK…
Christy Jordan-Fenton is the author of four award-winning and bestselling books about her Inuvialuk mother (in-law) Margaret Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton and her time attending a high Arctic Residential School in the 1940s. Christy’s poetry, short stories, and creative nonfiction have appeared in literary magazines and anthologies since she was 17. As a professional touring storyteller, Christy facilitates creative writing and storytelling workshops for over two hundred K-12 and adult audiences a year. She practices traditional ceremonies with the Kainai. Having been raised by a residential school survivor, she has been heavily involved in Truth and Reconciliation for nearly two decades.
Storytelling Sessions (with variations for busy learners and ELL students)
K-4 (45-60 min)interactive, multimedia storytelling around WHEN I WAS EIGHT and NOT MY GIRL. These sessions are trauma-informed, age-appropriate, and strengths-based, and are focussed on empathy building as well as taking inventory of personal resilience.
4-8, 9-12+ (60 min)interactive, multimedia storytelling that explores the life of Margaret Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton, as told in FATTY LEGS and A STRANGER AT HOME. Personal photos, and additional stories compliment these trauma-informed, age-appropriate sessions which deepen the context of Olemaun’s experiences. Olemaun’s acts of bravery and resilience are highlighted in ways that deepen students’ understanding of their own strengths.
PD 1.5-6 hrs
Educators are introduced to the story of Margaret Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton, her time attending a high Arctic residential school, and her brave journey sharing her story. Through a blend of modelling and deconstruction, educators are provided the tools for engaging as allies in Truth and Reconciliation and sharing stories in respectful, trauma-informed, age-appropriate, and strengths-based ways. Teachings are rooted in Christy’s experiences being raised by a residential school survivor, her close 20-year bond with Olemaun, 16 years working with K-12+, and her dedication to traditional ceremony.
Creative Workshops and Residencies (with variations for busy learners and ELL students)
Rev Up Your Creative Engines (45-90 min)
4+ Students learn to generate infinite story prompts and then turn those prompts into compelling loglines and blurbs.
Create Worlds that Inspire Stories (60-90 min) 3+ Students are introduced to the world-building elements used in FATTY LEGS and A STRANGER AT HOME, before learning to identify these elements in other popular/familiar stories, as they examine how to design worlds that inspire stories. Working with visual prompts, the students practice these techniques, before they are given an opportunity to create their own worlds with guided prompts.
Tea_2_TikTok (full day- 2 day)
3+ Youth/Elders Storykeeper/Storyteller workshop exploring the rights, responsibilities, and protocols around sharing stories intergenerationally, as youth and elders work collaboratively to create a written, oral, or visual story project. Especially ideal for Indigenous and new-comer youth and elders.
Other Writing Workshops and Residencies
Create Characters Who Make Stories Happen, Plotting the Journey, Create Beautiful Language, and Gamification for Imagination, Author as a Career. Modules can be combined for residencies. Custom residencies available.
In-person:
300 per 1 hr session, 400 per 1.5 hr session, 1000 for four 1 hr sessions, 1200 for five 1 hr sessions (can include aft/eve 1hr PD or parent event), 1200 per day for residencies, 1500 per day for PD
+GST + 60 travel surcharge per session or 240 per day within reasonable distance of a major city (inquire for remote locations)
Discounted group rates may be shared between schools.
Author is available during all breaks for questions, signing, and story club activities.
Virtual:
250 per 1 hr session, 800 for 4 sessions, 1000 for five sessions (can include 1 hr PD session)
+ GST
Follow-up questions via email will be answered, and teachers will be given temporary access to a recorded session, if requested.
Preferences
Size: Storytelling:5-500+ Creative Workshops: under 60
Venue: classroom, gymnasium, auditorium, learning commons, etc.
Tech: sessions include audio/visual components using an iPad. Author carries a projector, adaptors/dongles, and Apple TV, and all necessary sound equipment to include a headset mic. Author is experienced with using a variety of technologies, as well as integrating her own with existing systems, or setting up independent of school tech.
Member of The Writers’ Union of Canada, Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers (CANSCAIP) and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI); Vice-president of Children’s Writers & Illustrators of BC Society (CWILL-BC); and a member of Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC). Fiction and non-fiction historical, finalist for the IODE Violet Downey Book Award 2026.
All ages. School visits/Classroom visits/Educator workshops/Family Literacy Evening
$350 plus HST for 1 session $600 for 2, $900 for 3 + travel (.60 cents per kilometer, round-trip)
Virtual Visits: $250 plus HST, per session.
Nikki is an educator, storyteller and presenter bringing her enthusiasm for reading and writing to schools and community events. Many of Nikki’s books have themes of kindness, community and activism woven throughout the stories. Presentations for schools, libraries, and educator workshops are engaging and energetic. Nikki builds with Lego and loves to include her brick creations to spark creativity in storytelling.
Kindness & Community (grades K-4)
Using Lila Lou’s Little Library and Seasons for Stones, we look at how kindness builds community to make a difference in the school, neighbourhood, country and world.
Kindness, Compassion & Community (grades 5-8) (grades 9-12) (adults)
On September 11, 2001 a small Canadian town of Gander took in almost 7000 strangers, giving them shelter, food and hope during a time of terrible tragedy. A presentation using Gander: The Town that Welcomed the World will share historical facts in a sensitive age-related way. The history of Gander airport, changes in technology and the importance of working together are springboards for discussion.
Old Growth Forests: A Promise to Protect (grades 5-8)
Let’s go for a walk among the trees, learning the importance of old growth forests and the species that are threatened with habitat loss. Environmentalism, activism and biodiversity are woven throughout this interactive presentation in connection with the middle grade novel A Promise to Protect.
Building a Story (K-3) (4-5)
Using the author’s Lego builds to engage students, we create characters with unique settings and problems. Discussions on how to find our voice in storytelling and the importance of being curious to grow a story.
Tell Me a Story (K-3) (4-8) (9-12) (adults)
What’s it like to be an author? From planning to publication, the ins and outs, ups and downs of being an author of picture books, middle grade and historical non-fiction.
Presentation topics can be combined or tailored to the specific audience and school/community goals. Group sizes range from auditorium to classroom.
My home and where I write is located on the unceded traditional and ancestral territories of the Stó:lō Matsqui, Sumas and Kwantlen First Nations and the Nooksack Indian Tribe. These communities have lived in this land, called S’ólh Téméxw (“Our Land”) in Halq’eméylem, since time immemorial.
SCBWI, CANSCAIP and The Writer’s Union. Picture Books, Middle Grade & YA
Shari Becker is a critically acclaimed novelist and picture book author who has been writing and creating content, fiction and nonfiction for children and teens for over 25 years. Her nonfiction picture books include Taking Turns With Turtles: A Rescue Story and Sprouting Wings, which she co-authored. Her fiction picture books include Maxwell’s Mountain and Horris Grows Down. She has also written the YA climate-change adventure novel The Stellow Project, and she is currently working on a middle grade contemporary manuscript.
Over the span of her writing career, Shari has tutored, taught and led creative activities for students in elementary, middle and high schools across North America. In 2017, Shari founded Whale Rock Literary Workshops, a master-level writing education company for children’s authors that employs award-winning authors and editors as well as MFA-level faculty. She holds an MA from New York University and kicked off her career developing branded content for Nickelodeon, Disney-owned properties, and an Emmy Award–winning puppeteer.
Shari’s books have received honors including Bank Street Best Books Outstanding Merit, Children’s Book Council Notable Social Studies Book for Young People, Golden Kite Finalist, Oklahoma State Sequoyah Book Award Nominee, Pennsylvania Keystone to Reading Elementary Book Award Nominee and Charlotte Zolotow Honors. Multiple titles are Junior Library Guild selections, and she has received starred School Library Journal as well as a starred Publishers Weekly Reviews.
Rates:
Within Toronto, for in-person workshops, Shari’s rates are $300 for one session, $550 for two and $800 for three sessions. HST is additional. All sessions are between 45 and 60 minutes. For virtual workshops, Shari’s rates are $250 for one session, $450 for two and $675 for three. HST is additional. Kindergarten visits can be split into two 25 minutes visits with different classes. Travel fees may apply outside the metro-Toronto area.
Presentations are available in Montreal when possible as I am there often.
Presentations Available: Preschool through Kindergarten Taking Turns With Turtles: A Rescue Story 25-30 minute storytime with question and answer period and optional art activity connected to turtles or other community helpers. Shari is happy to connect with teachers and librarians ahead of time to adapt the presentation to their current curriculum.
Maxwell’s Mountain 25-30 minute storytime with question and answer period and optional art activity connected to map-making and trip planning. Shari is happy to connect with teachers and librarians ahead of time to adapt the presentation to their current curriculum.
Grades 3 – 5 Sprouting Wings This 45-60 minute presentation includes a reading of the picture book as well as a conversation about the backstory and/or questions students may have about James Herman Banning.
Class conversation will revolve around community and untold stories. Students will be given time to brainstorm an idea and write a story about either a community they are a part of or a greatest story from their family. If there is time we can share and read aloud.
Shari is happy to connect with teachers and librarians ahead of time to adapt presentations to the current curriculum. As well, if appropriate, Shari can combine Taking Turns With Turtles as part of a class discussion around the concept of community.
Grades 5 – 12 Shari has taught workshops in schools and afterschool programs for private and public groups. She tutored high schoolers in essay writing as well as in writing personal statements for the US university application process.
She will coordinate with school faculty to collaborate on specific, 45-60 minute writing workshops, aligned with the current curriculum, if desired, drawing on Shari’s extensive background in teaching creative writing and educational / academic writing to students.
Some examples of her workshops for middle and high schoolers include:
Using concrete nouns and creative verbs to enhance your writing We’ll explore how making word choices in writing can elevate a piece of writing. Shari will share and explore examples of paragraphs from age-appropriate literature where the authors use concrete nouns and unique verbs. Shari will create a list of nouns and verbs with students and each student will write their own paragraphs, which we will then share out loud and discuss.
Character development Memorable characters stay with readers for a lifetime. Shari will lead students through a conversation around their favorite characters. She’ll investigate why these characters are beloved and how the authors created them. Shari will share selections from literature and discuss with the class all the various questions an author needs to consider when creating a character. Students will each be asked to answer a series of questions about a character and then write a paragraph where they “tell” us about a character using the “show don’t tell” approach.
Dialogue and body language Compelling dialogue makes stories believable. In this workshop we’ll read a series of novel excerpts where characters are talking to each other. We’ll look at how real conversations often don’t include full sentences. Characters cut each other off, repeat themselves, start an idea and then continue later. We’ll look at how authors describe the characters’ bodies while they are speaking so that the reader can imagine the scene. Shari may ask two or three students to come up and act out the scenes they read. Students will then have an opportunity to write themselves or with partners a scene that contains dialogue and body language.
Personal Essays Personal essays can be a powerful writing tool for both students applying to universities and students looking for a form of self-expression. Using examples of the US Common Application essay as a starting point, Shari can teach 10th-12th graders the art of writing about oneself. She’ll talk about how to find a great topic, how to use narration as a tool to hook readers, and how to bring the narrative together in a way that is memorable.
Equipment required: Equipment differs from presentation to presentation. Flip chart and markers or whiteboard and pens, microphone and podium (for large rooms), paper and pencils or pens (for workshops). Art supplies may be needed or brought by author, TBD. Teacher and/or librarian must be present.
CANSCAIP and Canadian Children’s Book Center member, multi-starred reviewed author, Calgary’s Top 40 under 40, with published titles from board books to middle grade.
Maria’s rate in and around Calgary is:
IN-PERSON: $300 for one session, $500 for two, $750 for a full day (three one-hour sessions). Option to add a lunch-time signing or small-group session with keen readers for $100. Classroom writing workshops are available for $500. GST and mileage are also applicable. A travel fee of $0.50/km for areas outside Calgary.
VIRTUAL: $200 + GST, one hour, Zoom. **For the 2025/2026 school year, Maria is booking virtual visits exclusively.
FOREST OF READING 2026 NOMINEE
Maria Marianayagam is a Tamil Sri Lankan-Canadian engineer turned children’s book author. She fell in love with children’s books (again!) after becoming an Amma (mom). She was born in India and grew up across four provinces in Canada (Newfoundland, Quebec, Ontario, and Alberta). Her debut picture book, The Amazing Power of Girls (Sourcebooks eXplore, 2024), was named a Children’s Book Council Teacher’s Favourite, a CCBC Best Science Book, and endorsed by the presidents of Girls Inc. and Actua Inc.
She is the author of the quadruple-starred, critically-acclaimed middle grade novel, No Purchase Necessary (HarperCanada/HarperCollins, 2025), the family favourite 4-title board book series, The Baby Virtues (Hachette, 2024/2025), and her most recent STEM picture book release, Wait ‘Til You’re Older (Sourcebooks eXplore, 2025).
Maria is an experienced speaker, comfortable in front of an audience of kids and adults alike. Maria’s sessions revolve around a slide presentation, book reading, and Q&A (activity can be included as well). Working with each educator or teacher/librarian, Maria selects the perfect book or books that will be appreciated by each age group.
Here are examples (but all can be tailored):
Grade 1-4: STEM focus: The Amazing Power of Girls or Wait Til You’re Older. Audience members will learn about Maria’s journey from engineer to author, how to find careers that marry both STEM and art, plus an introduction to the science elements of the book. Enjoy a reading of the book to conclude the presentation. Optional Q&A. (30-45 mins.)
Grades 1-4: Cultural focus: Curry Means More [available after Oct 28, 2025]. With a warm, inclusive tone, Maria Marianayagam encourages students of all backgrounds to share and celebrate their own family traditions—whether it’s a stew, sandwich, or snack. This visit blends read-aloud moments, behind-the-scenes insights into writing a book, and fun, reflective questions that help students see the beauty of their own heritage and imagination. Optional Q&A. (30-45 mins.)
Grade 5-6: Writing Workshop: Using the STEM-focused presentation for The Amazing Power of Girls, Maria will dissect literary devices like diction, personification, puns, and more, using examples from the book, and have students write their own poetry to present. (1 hr., 1 classroom maximum)
Grade 7-9: No Purchase Necessary: In this thought-provoking talk, Maria explores how she built the central ethical dilemma in No Purchase Necessary, and how characters become real when they face tough choices with no easy answers. Including a reading from the novel, a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process, and an exercise where students reflect on their own values and write about a dilemma of their own. Optional Q&A. (30-45 mins.)
Grades 7-9: Writing Workshop: In this hands-on writing workshop, author Maria uses scenes from No Purchase Necessary to show students how to convey powerful emotions—like fear, guilt, or excitement—not through dialogue alone, but through body language, movement, and action. Maria guides students in understanding how actions can reveal character, deepen stakes, and drive plot. Maria will read a short scene from the novel, identify Ajay’s feelings and how it’s shown through action, and then have students write a short scene where characters show an emotion without saying it outright. (1 hr., 1 classroom maximum)
Maria’s presentations are visual, interactive, and fast-paced. She prefers to speak to a maximum of 100 students at a time (but can be flexible, if needed). Her presentations work best with 1-3 classrooms at a time, with workshops being most effective with one classroom. She requires a screen, a laptop with 2 USB ports, and a microphone (if it’s an assembly presentation).
For in-person visits within the Greater Toronto Area, the rate is $300 + HST for the first session and $150 + HST for each additional session on the same day and at the same location. Each session runs 45 minutes to one hour, with a maximum of four sessions per day. Travel fees may apply.
For virtual visits, the rate is $150 + HST per session, with the same session length and daily maximum of four.
About Nadine Presley’s School Visits Poetry | Picture Books | Memory | Identity | Belonging | Home | Ramadan
Nadine Presley is a Syrian Canadian picture book author passionate about storytelling and the healing power of poetry to preserve memory and identity. She brings a warm, empathetic, and flexible approach to her presentations, adapting to each group’s energy and interests. Drawing from her own experiences, growing up bilingual (English/ Arabic), rediscovering poetry after displacement, and her writing journey, Nadine creates engaging, sensory-rich sessions that invite students to explore their voices, connect deeply with stories, and develop empathy through creative self-expression.
Sample Sessions by Grade:
JK to Grade 1 Using The City of Jasmine and A Ramadan Night, Nadine brings picture books to life with expressive reading, sensory language, and a gentle conversational style. These sessions are joyful, warm, and often filled with laughter, the laughter of family and cousins, the smell of jasmine in the air, and maybe even a surprise sound effect or two. Nadine also brings custom coloring pages to help students reflect through art. Rooted in rhythm, repetition, and inclusive conversation, these sessions are designed to spark curiosity, empathy, and joy.
Grades 2 to 4 Nadine encourages students to step into someone else’s shoes through her stories, while also reflecting on their own identity and emotions. With joy, energy, and a touch of the unexpected, she keeps students engaged while introducing them to rich sensory language and poetic imagery. Sessions often include simple, open-ended writing or drawing prompts that invite students to explore who they are and where they come from in creative, playful ways. Sessions can focus on a particular book or theme (e.g., Ramadan, memory, family, displacement), and are easily adapted for different classroom needs.
Grades 5 to 8 Nadine shares her journey from growing up bilingual to finding her voice as a poet. Students are invited to explore how stories carry memory, shape identity, and build empathy. Using guided sensory exercises and powerful writing prompts—such as “I come from…”—she helps students peel back the layers of their own experience and express themselves with authenticity and emotion. These sessions focus on creating immersive, layered writing that connects with readers. Includes Q&A and discussion around writing, publishing, and the creative process.
Note: Nadine also has a deep passion for working with classes with students with special needs. Her inclusive, flexible sessions use tools like visual supports, sensory-friendly activities, and differentiated approaches to ensure every child can engage meaningfully and feel seen through storytelling.
Writer’s Union member. Member of CANSCAIP, Canadian Children’s Book Centre, Science Writers and Communicators of Canada, Society of Children’s Book and Writers and Illustrators, National Marine Educators Association, North American Association for Environmental Education, Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication, and Canadian Network for Ocean Education. A selection of awards and honour include UNESCO Ocean Literacy, United Nationals Sustainable Development Book Club, Green Prize for Sustainable Literature, Santa Monica Public Libraries Winner, Sigurd F Olsen Nature Writing Award for Children’s Literature Winner, International Book Award, Society of School Librarians Winner, and several other awards and honours.
Fees for on-site visits: $350 + HST per presentation, $600 + HST for two presentations on the same day. Each additional presentation on the same day $250 + HST, up to a maximum of 4 presentations. Mileage for school visits outside of Toronto $0.61/km. Accommodation fees may apply if outside GTHA. Fees for virtual visits: $300 + HST per presentation, $200 + HST for each additional presentation on the same day, to a maximum of 4 presentations per day.
Rochelle Strauss is on a mission to change the world – one book at a time! As an environmental educator and award-winning children’s author, Rochelle is dedicated to building environmental literacy and inspiring people to become active stewards of our planet. Through her work, she uses compelling storytelling to bring complex ecological processes and environmental issues to life, helping young people better understand the natural world and empowering them to make a positive impact. Most importantly, Rochelle also brings HOPE by sharing ripples of change – good new stories from around the world. Rochelle’s children’s books have won several awards, been translated globally and incorporated into curriculum in the US. The Global Ocean is a UNESCO endorsed Ocean Decade Activity, and One Well: The Story of Water on Earth was selected as part of the UN’s SDG Book Club in support of SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation. One Well has also sold over half a million copies internationally. An active speaker and presenter, Rochelle can often be found building environmental literacy in classrooms around the world and raising the profile of non-fiction books as tools for STEM education at conferences and teacher training workshops.
School Programs:
The Global Ocean
What if Earth had a beating heart that powered everything on the planet? In a way, the Global Ocean is like Earth’s Heart.
Using this powerful premise, this presentation focusses on building Ocean Literacy – the understanding of the ocean’s influence on us, and our influence on the ocean.
Diving into the global ocean students learn about the ocean and how it sustains all life on Earth. They explore the important roles the ocean plays in supporting life, such as regulating Earth’s climate, controlling weather, providing habitat, and as a source of food for many animals on the planet (including people). Students also hear about the many issues affecting the health of the global ocean such as pollution, global warming, overfishing, habitat destruction, etc.
But Rochelle’s emphasis is on HOPE. Using stories called ripples of change, Rochelle shares good news stories of ocean conservation and action from around the world, to demonstrate how people, organizations and governments are taking action and making a difference. An interactive activity engages the entire audience to demonstrate how even the smallest action have a big impact, leaving students feeling empowered, inspired and hopeful!
Curriculum connections: water cycle, ecosystems, habitats and communities, environment, diversity of living things, earth systems, climate change, food chains and webs, earth and human activity, weather and climate.
One Well: The Story of Water on Earth
Imagine for a moment that all the water on Earth came from just one well.
During this presentation, Rochelle leads students on a journey to become Well Aware, by building their water literacy. Students discover how all water on Earth is connected, as well as explore the water cycle, water as habitat, and the issues impacting Earth’s one well, such as the limited amount of freshwater on Earth, access to the well, demands on the well and pollution in the well. Shared stories also demonstrate how plants and animals (including people) use and depend on water.
The presentation wraps with good news stories and an opportunity for students to brainstorm actions they can take to protect water on Earth. A final dramatic moment comes with an activity that demonstrates how every student has the power to create their own ripples of change. The activity leaves the students feeling empowered and inspired.
Curriculum connections: water cycle, ecosystems, habitats and communities, environment, diversity of living things, earth systems, climate change, food chains and webs, earth and human activity, weather and climate.
Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth
Please contact Rochelle directly to discuss presentations in support of Tree of Life.
Teacher’s guides available upon request 🙂
Important Info:
Grades: 3-7 (accommodations can be made for younger/older)
Group size: Max 150 students per presentation (happy discuss larger groups)
Requirements: LCD projector and screen, as well as mic and speaker for groups of 30 or more.
Virtual visits can be conducted via Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, etc.
Times: Rochelle can (and has!) accommodated presentations around the globe, in a range of time zones.
Member of Editors Canada, CANSCAIP, and the Writers’ Union of Canada. School-age presentations are available for grades K–5 (author talks) or grades 5–8 (workshops). Custom presentations and workshops for adults or older students are also available.
In-person presentations (45–60 minutes; max. 4 per day): $300 for 1 session; $250 for each additional session. For kindergarten, one session can be divided into two 25- to 30-minute presentations.
Virtual presentations (45–60 minutes; max. 2 per day): $200 per session. For kindergarten, one session can be divided into two 20- to 25-minute presentations.
Small-group writing workshops (2 hours): $500 per session.
NOTE: HST applies to all sessions; mileage of $0.55/km applies for visits more than 25 km from London, Ontario.
Laura Bontje is a freelance fiction editor and children’s book author who writes stories that celebrate childhood curiosity, language, and STEM. A former teacher, Laura brings her experience in English and ESL classrooms to her presentations with students. Covering kid-engaging topics like palindromes, insects, and dinosaurs, her books include Was It a Cat I Saw? (Amicus Ink; illus. Emma Lidia Squillari), When the Air Sang (Annick Press; illus. Sarah Whang), Marian’s Big Dig (Groundwood Books, illus. Scot Ritchie), and more to come! Laura was raised in Calgary, Alberta, and now lives in London, Ontario.
What to Expect
Author visits include a reading of one picture book, as well as time for Q&A. (Teacher tip: consider brainstorming some general questions with the class in advance!) Sessions can be customized to touch on themes that students are learning about in school. In addition to an introduction to the author and the writing and editing process, presentations may touch on the following (adapted to the needs of the age group):
Was It a Cat I Saw?
Kindergarten: interactive explanation of simple palindromes, seek-and-find in illustrations during read-aloud
Grades 1 to 4: interactive introduction to more complex palindromes and figurative language, importance of rough copies and revision in text and art
When the Air Sang
interactive brainstorming or game about identifying traces and traits of animals
discussion of life cycles
introduction to annual vs. periodical cicadas
Marian’s Big Dig
interactive brainstorming about fossils and the kids who find them
discussion of different art forms, including collage and found art
opportunities for in-class activities after the reading
Writing workshops for grades 5–8: How do you get from idea to character to plot? Through a mix of discussion, examples, and writing prompts, Laura will guide students through the process of creating a story arc with clear stakes and understanding how each writer’s unique voice and imagination can lead to a variety of creative outcomes. While writing workshops are most effective in small groups or for single classes, this can also be adapted to work as an interactive presentation to multiple classes (e.g. in a school gym).
Presentations for adults: From conference sessions to writers’ group visits, Laura is happy to customize presentations or workshops to suit the needs of your group! Reach out any time to discuss the possibilities.
Laura can present to groups of any size, but the presentation style may vary according to the logistics of the group size and the space. Book orders and signings may be possible prior to or during the visit; contact Laura to discuss details.
School presentation requirements: a screen and projector for PowerPoint (please notify Laura of technical needs for plugging in to the system), a microphone for presentations in gyms. Students can be seated at desks or on the floor.
Workshop requirements: a whiteboard and paper flip-chart are preferred (along with markers), but if only one is available, that will still work. Seating that allows for collaboration in partners or small groups is ideal. Students will need paper and writing utensils.
Celia Krampien writes and illustrates picture books and novels for young people. She grew up in a small town (population 400) in rural Southern Ontario where she spent most of her time reading and exploring the woods around her house. Celia loves creating bright, colourful, emotionally complex books. Celia’s books are best suited for students in grades JK – 8 but is happy to be flexible and adapt presentations to meet the needs of students of any age.
Book topics: the power of stories, handling adversity, facing fears, differences in perspective, friendship, bullying, Halloween.
– Slideshow presentation about using words and pictures as storytelling tools with examples from Celia’s recent book with Kristen Dickson, Fiona Builds a Fairyhouse
– interactive drawing activity – students draw along with Celia, drawing their own fairytale creatures and creating a story to introduce them to the rest of the class (requires easel and large pad of paper)
– Q&A session
How a Story Becomes a Book (And Why Does it Take So Long?!) – 1 hour (Grades 4 and up)
– slideshow presentation showing the step-by-step process of the creation of Celia’s spooky middle grade novel, The Bellwoods Game. Students will get a behind the scenes peek at Celia’s journey, starting at her first attempts at writing through to publication day
– interactive activity- students will tryout different brainstorming techniques to answer the age old question of where ideas come from (requires easel and large pad of paper)
– Q&A session
Cover Stories – the making of a book cover (Grades 4 and up)
– slideshow presentation about the step-by-step process of creating illustrated covers for middle grade novels and why sometimes it’s okay to judge a book by its cover
– interactive activity – students draw along with Celia to create their own book covers (requires easel and large pad of paper)
– Q&A session
Equipment Required:
– Projector to display slideshow (in-person visits)
– easel and large pad of paper for presentations activities
– Paper, pencils/crayons/markers for students for presentations with brainstorming and draw-along activities.
– Microphone, sound system and podium for larger groups (50+ attendees)
Writers’ Union member. CANSCAIP member. Picture Books. Middle grade. Graphic Novels. English language presentations and workshops for all ages.
In-Person Visits (45-60 minutes): $300 for 1 session; $250 for each subsequent session up to four sessions in one day. A session may be split into two 25 minute storytime events for grades K-2.
Virtual Visits (45-60 minutes): $200 per session. A session may be split into two 25 minute storytime events for grades K-2.
FOREST OF READING 2026 NOMINEE
HST applies to all sessions. If travel is over 50 km, a rate of 50¢/km, round trip, will be charged. Accommodations may be required if the event is a lengthy distance for Casey to travel or takes place over multiple days.
Notables:
Multiple nominee for the CCBC Book Awards, the Forest of Reading, and the Manitoba Young Reader’s Choice Awards (MYRCA)
Red Cedar Fiction Award winner
Selected for Junior Library Guild, OLA Best Bets, and the International Youth Library’s White Ravens list
Barnes and Noble Best Picture Book nominee
Testimonial: “Casey’s presentation was an absolute delight and so engaging for the over 150 students that came to see her! She shared her own story of perseverance in chasing her dream of writing stories and was so personable with the students answering all of their many questions with humour and respect. Casey’s story writing exercise provided the audience with an excellent example of developing their own story. Truly an inspiration to inspiring authors young and old. Thank you!” – Peggy Cline, Children’s Programming Coordinator, Grimsby Public Library
Casey Lyall is the author of nine (and counting!) humorous books for kids such as the Howard Wallace, P.I. series, A Spoonful of Frogs (illustrated by Vera Brosgol), Gnome Is Where Your Heart Is, Waking the Dead and Other Fun Activities, and The League of Littles (illustrated by Sara Faber.)
Casey offers fun, dynamic, and interactive presentations that entertain and inform while leaving her audience excited about creating their own stories.
Her general presentation covers the key elements that Casey has learned over her years as a writer while allowing time for a Q&A with students and a group story-building game. Casey is a very flexible presenter and can adapt her presentation to suit the needs of a school. If there is an interest in focusing more on one aspect of writing or on one of her books specifically, that can be accommodated.
Casey also loves presenting at libraries! She’s available for storytime visits as well as workshops for all ages. Reach out to discuss what kind of visit would best suit your organization.
If there is an interest in book sales at an event, Casey can provide order forms with instructions to help organize the process in advance. She co-ordinates with a bookstore that offers her titles at a discount.
Testimonial: “Casey presented at the Lakefield Literary Festival Children’s Tent Event, and we loved her performance. She had the kids and adults laughing with her fun, improvised story. It was hilarious, and very engaging for the audience. Casey was a skilled, organized and enthusiastic performer, and our community adored her.”- Kacie Gardiner, Lakefield Literary Festival and Selwyn Public Library
Free Virtual Visits: Casey offers a limited number of free fifteen-minute virtual visits to classes or book clubs who have read one of her books. These sessions are strictly Q&A only with no presentation.
Writing Workshops: Available on request. Fees negotiable based on time and intensity. Casey will work with schools and libraries to craft a workshop specifically suited to their needs. These are available for smaller groups – maximum size is one class or approximately twenty adults.
Equipment: Casey can accommodate presentations to groups of any size, but if she is presenting in a large venue, a microphone is required. A librarian, teacher, or other school representative must be present throughout any event. A digital projector and screen may be required (Some presentations are accompanied by PowerPoint slides. Casey can bring her laptop or provide a flash drive). A table to keep supplies on is also appreciated.
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 $175, 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. This additional $175 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).
And for an additional $250, there is also the option to take this visit “on the road” to the Children’s Conservatory at Allan Gardens (19 Horticultural Avenue, Toronto)! Join the author, Parrot Sanctuary volunteers, and parrot guests with your class at Allan Gardens for a reading of Chloe the Unfeathered Parrot and presentation, as well as Q&A and engagement with Parrot Sanctuary volunteers and parrots! (Please note that parents with children who have nut allergies must still 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 $150, 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 $250 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.
