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School and Library Visits
One of the best things about being an author and illustrator of picture books is meeting my readers! I find great pleasure in going to schools and libraries to share my books and how I create them with others. I feel that when children learn the nuts and bolts of picture book making and how all the parts of a book contribute to it’s whole, it empowers them with very important knowledge that will make reading books that much more important to them.
PRESENTATION
My presentations vary according to age group. Typically, in the first half I will read one of my books while explaining the different parts and their functions, including:
- the jacket, front matter, title page,
- dedication page, types of illustrations, various
- mediums used, design, construction, etc.
I talk about how my books start in my imagination and end up on the bookshelf, focusing on where I get my ideas, how I revise and edit the story and pictures, and how long the whole process usually takes. I show the children my sketches, dummy books, and original final art, discussing with them why some of the illustrations made it into the book and why others did not.
The second half is where the real fun begins. This is where I’m the illustrator and the children become the authors! I begin with a sentence and draw it out on a large sheet of paper, typically from a large pad sitting on an easel. Then I go around the room, asking each student what happens next. As our story unfolds from one child to the next, I draw what they say on the paper. When I leave, the children can finish the story, color in my drawings, or do whatever they wish with it.
I always leave room at the end for a question and answer session.
GOAL
When I leave, I hope to have enriched a child’s mind with knowledge and imagination so that when they pick up a book, they’ll not only know how and why that book was created, but will want to create one of their own.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Length and number of presentations
This varies with age group, teacher/librarian needs, etc. I prefer
to do 60 minutes per presentation, but will do 30 minutes if more then
one is requested in a day.
Age group
I can adjust my presentation accordingly to pre-K through 5 th grade.
What I need
All I really need is a large pad of paper on an easel, (or large sheets
of drawing paper taped to the wall or blackboard), non-toxic markers,
a small table, and children with their imagination caps screwed on tight!
Program size and location
I prefer small groups (about 30-40 children). The children get
the most out of the presentation this way, feeling more involved in the
group. I like working in libraries or small spaces, with the children sitting
on the floor as close as possible, which encourages participation.
School contact
I always appreciate it when the person who sets up the visit is at the
school or library the day of the visit to answer questions, show me around,
and assist with materials.
Preparing for the visit
The children always seem to get the most out of my visit if they are
prepared for it. Becoming familiar with me and my books always goes a
long way, as well as preparing some questions for me in advance.
Book signing
This is another favorite
part of my visit! I’m still very flattered
that someone actually wants my autograph! I am more then happy to put
aside time any time during the day to sign books. I will do a personal
inscription as well as a small drawing in each book, and I don’t
mind if the children are there while I do it. This gives me some extra
time to talk with my readers and ask them what they like about my books!
Schedule a Visit
If you would to schedule me for a school or library visit, please contact Janet Zade at:
Zade Educational Partners
33 Talbot Road
Hingham, MA 02043
Phone 781-749-2733, Fax 781-749-5507
http://www.authors4kids.com
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions whatsoever, and I look forward to meeting you and your students! Happy reading!