Let's Talk Books!

I love visiting schools and talking with kids about reading, writing, and the stories of people all over! I write non-fiction, with a focus on biography, history, and culture, so that flavors my presentations.

​During an author visit, I delve into what goes into writing a book, from idea through finished product, including researching, outlining, writing, revising, and editing. It’s not all workmanlike—I also like to talk about world-building—yes, even in non-fiction—and finding stories amid the facts. It’s a little bit like being a detective, and a little bit like raising a puppy. There are dead-ends, hard work, and more than one mess to deal with. But it’s worth it in the end!

My primary goal is to get kids excited about books with a behind-the-scenes look at writing one, but I'm also trying to help teachers out by reinforcing concepts that they're covering in the classroom. So, books in this presentation also align with curriculum standards in ELA and history/social studies, including the research process and language usage (writing), as well as social justice, personal responsibility, and the workings of communities and societies (history/social studies).

My presentations run about 40-45 minutes and are appropriate for 3rd to 8th grades (not at the same time—grouped by age level!). I like to talk with the kids as I’m going, so small- to medium-size groups (50 or fewer) that can fit in a classroom are best; however, if you prefer a larger assembly format, let me know and we can work something out.

My rates are $500 for a half day (2 presentations) or $900 for a full day (up to 4 presentations), plus travel/hotel expenses for destinations more than 100 miles from Lawrence, Kansas. I am happy to bundle visits with more than one school to allow you to share travel costs. Due to Covid-19, I am also offering virtual visits—same content, just socially distanced!

Contact me at PDianeBailey@gmail.com with any questions.

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