School Visits

“Laurel’s unexpected tales and exceptional story telling skills captivated her audience and captured their hearts.  The grade 6 students even broke out into a spontaneous standing ovation!”

Solomon Schechter Academy, Montreal

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“Today was an incredible day, and the energy that the kids had about Laurel’s books and writing was electric.  They had so many ideas stirring in their minds.  I can’t wait to see the stories that students create after this inspiring day.  Thank you, Laurel!”

David C. Barrow Elementary, Athens, GA

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YES!  I am absolutely positively available for classroom visits. In fact, I’m a proud member of the Author Village, and I highly recommend you check out all of the talented authors who make up our village!

It is my greatest pleasure to hang out with kids, and  I have a bunch of fun/creative/silly programs I’ve designed for a range of ages. (be warned that this sometimes involves a great deal of giggling and also some-hat-wearing, so if you are hat-phobic or have just had delicate oral surgery you should probably not attend).

I’m happy to meet with a small group for an intimate afternoon of writing exercises/workshops, but I’m equally pleased to embarrass myself in front of larger groups, for readings or assemblies.  Once upon a time I wanted to be an actress, and nothing makes me happier than twirling, projecting, and singing show tunes at the drop of a hat.  I am widely known for my willingness to answer any question.

My most popular program is a talk (interactive, I promise) about how I began my writing at the age of eight. I share my story– as a writer, but also as a regular person, and walk the kids through my journey, ending in a Q&A.  I promise this is lots of fun, but also serious.  I talk a lot about the importance of boredom and quiet time, and the role failure plays in the creative process.

I’d like to add that I’m also happy to design programs to meet your needs, whatever they may be. We are ALL different,  and some groups require something special, tailor-made. If you work with a population that has any special needs or wishes, email me and let me know.  I’ll put on my thinking cap!

I’m also in the process of working with educators to develop teaching guides for all of my books, and if you need something specific, shoot me an email.  But meanwhile, you can always find a few online:

Charlie and Mouse teaching guide!
Orphan Island teaching guide!
Bigger than a Bread Box teaching guide!

And whether or not you are able to invite me for a visit, let me take this opportunity to say THANK YOU!  Thank you for teaching. You are doing the most important work there is. I bow down before your patience, dedication, and vision.