How do writers turn everyday events into fantastic adventures? I’m happy to share some of the tricks and techniques I use when I visit your school or library. My presentations are fun and interactive, just right to get students motivated as you kick off a writing unit.
“We were so pleased to have Dr. Alison Stevens share her knowledge of the writing and research process with our students. Her presentation perfectly complimented our writing curriculum focus on research skills and nonfiction writing. The students were captivated by her experiences and eager to begin their own research projects.”
Jane Millard — Elementary School Librarian
Solving the Mysteries of North America’s Ancient Past
This assembly-style, interactive presentation focuses on my latest release, Rhinos in Nebraska. It introduces students to the idea that our continent used to look very different than it does today—but how do we know? Students will uncover the scientific mysteries surrounding the Ashfall Fossil Beds. What were rhinos doing in the middle of North America? Why did the horses have three toes? And where did all that ash come from, anyway? A great way to tie Language Arts and Social Studies (history) to Science. Available for grades 3-5 with a focus on geology and fossil evidence or for grades 1-2 with a focus on the features of ancient North American mammals.
“What a wonderful selection of workshops! The students in particular really loved getting a chance to use some writing strategies that Alison shared, and then had the chance to share their stories with her. The session on the history of North America’s past works really well with the social studies curriculum for 4th graders. If students were planning on visiting Ashfall Fossil Beds, this session is a must see before their field trip. Alison was easy to get ahold of, always got back to me quickly, and was a wonderful Nebraska writer to have visited our school. Thanks so much Alison!”
Erika Hanke — Elementary School Librarian
Writing Non-Fiction that’s Weird (but True!)
This presentation for elementary school and middle school (grades 3-8) is all about writing nonfiction. How do the Weird But True books come together? What is the research like? How do writers make their stories fun to read? Do they really have to revise? And what are some of Alison’s favorites facts and stories that made it into the Weird But True books (or didn’t)?
“Alison Pearce Stevens did an amazing job! Her presentation was inspiring for young writers while giving great writing tips to all students. There was interaction throughout to keep the students engaged and intrigued with her.”
Lindsay Borosko – Grade 6 Teacher
(Re-)Writing to Get it Right
Many students dislike having to revise their work. In this presentation for grades 4-8 they’ll quickly discover that not only is revision an essential part of the writing process, but it can also be fun. Includes Revision Rules handout.
“I learned a ton about being an author. The main thing I learned though was to always revise! I’m now revising everything I write.” – Kylan, Student
Non-Fiction Writing Workshop
In this workshop for grades 3-5, I talk about what it’s like to write National Geographic Kids’ Weird But True Ripped from the Headline books: how I found topics, how chapters came together, and how I created fun-to-read stories. Students will get to choose from an assortment of ideas and use these to practice writing Weird-But-True-style short stories. In this workshop, we will cover: how to find interesting information and be sure it’s true, hooking your readers, and making your writing fun and snappy.
“Dr. Stevens had all students completely engaged during her presentation, and they walked away motivated and excited to begin their research projects.”
Connie Peterson — Grade 5 Teacher
Fiction Writing Workshop
This workshop for grades 3-5 starts off with an assortment of photos of wacky events—the perfect prompts to ignite the imagination. As a group, we will select one image and use it to brainstorm story ideas, then write (and revise) our group story. Students will then choose their own images and practice brainstorming and writing their own stories using the techniques we covered in the first part of the workshop.
“What an incredible experience for our kids! They loved it!”
Christa Hake — Grade 4 Teacher
Book a Visit
Free Virtual Visits
Want a visit for free? You’re in luck! I participate in World Read Aloud Day. In addition to WRAD visits, I offer a limited number of free 15-minute Skype/Zoom/Hangout visits with classrooms each year. During these visits, I read from my books and answer students’ questions (please have students read one book and prepare questions in advance to make the most of our time). One free visit per school per two year period. Please book early to ensure one of these spots.
Longer Virtual Visits
I offer 45-minute virtual visits for a small fee. These can focus on my books, one of the programs listed above, another writing-related topic of your choice, or cover general writing processes plus Q&A. I’m very flexible in what I can present—just let me know what you’d like.
In-Person Author Visits – currently booking for the 2023-2024 school year
I offer full-day visits, consisting of up to four presentations (assembly-style, workshop, or combination of the two), plus a book signing. Please note in your inquiry whether you are interested in selling books.
How do you make an author visit a truly memorable experience for your students? It’s all about the preparation. Check out this great post by Dan Gutman on how to do it right.
I charge travel expenses for schools more than 50 miles from Lincoln, Nebraska. For schools more than two hours away, please book two sequential days and note that my hotel accommodations must also be covered. I have family in the Kansas City and Denver areas, and will not need accommodations when visiting schools in these areas.
Ideally, a two-day visit will be split between two (or more) schools, which will allow you to share travel and honorarium costs.
Note: Wondering why author visits aren’t free? Learn more here. Funding is available to cover the costs of bringing in authors. Here are some tips on seeking local support or getting grants for school visits.
Please fill out the contact form or email me at alison [at] apstevens [dot] com for information on availability. I look forward to meeting you and your students!