Author Talks
I visit schools, libraries, bookshops and festivals to talk about my books and inspire children to read, write and apply their creativity.
🤖 Digital school visits are super simple to arrange.
🎨 The mysteries and puzzles in the STICKY PINES series emphasise the importance of critical thinking.
It is my belief that children learn more when they are ‘at play’ and having fun, and that’s why I always ensure my events are entertaining as well as educational. I am equally comfortable addressing small groups as I am hundreds of children, and also know how to bring the excitement levels down when kids are perhaps enjoying themselves a little too much.
Inspire children to read and write for pleasure
SCHOOL VISITS
I am available for in-person and virtual school and library visits. My events involve readings, Q&As, discussions, quizzes, games, fun facts, visuals, and a range of activities – from writing to acting, drawing or puzzle solving. They are suitable for KS2 or KS3 classes.
SHORT VISITS
30 minute virtual visit
- For one class of approx. 30 children
- Cost: £50
One hour virtual visit
- For one class of approx. 30 children
- Cost: £90
Half day in-person
- Up to 2.5 hours long
- Up to two classes of approx. 30 children each
- Cost: £250
These events typically involve a reading from one of the STICKY PINES books, plus a Q&A followed by an interactive storytelling activity based on the reading. If time allows, I will also lead a writing exercise, artistic challenge, or story-inspired game depending on the time allotted. For in-person visits, books can be made available for purchase on-site through a local bookshop, with a book signing event if time allows.
FULL VISITS
Virtual visits
- 2 – 3 consecutive events, up to 3 hours long
- For two or three groups of approx. 30 to 90 children.
- Cost: £180 to £250
Full day in-person
- Up to 4.5 hours long
- Up to four consecutive classes of approx. 30 children each
- Cost: £450
In-Person Assembly event
- 1.5 hours long
- Variable audience size
- Cost: £500
These extended visits can include any of the following:
- A dramatic reading from one of the books in the STICKY PINES series
- A short or extended author Q&A session
- An interactive discussion exploring storytelling techniques
- An audiovisual presentation about the creative inspiration for my work entitled, ‘This Weird World’
- Writing games and critical thinking exercises
- Group activities from the STICKY PINES school pack
- Interactive storytelling games
- Build-your-own-monster/create-your-own-UFO artistic exercise
- Narrative storytelling workshop
- Science-fiction and fantasy writing workshop
- Book buying and signing event — books should be made available for purchase on-site through a local bookshop
Public appearances at trade and arts festivals
Please contact Christabel McKinley at David Higham Associates for all live event queries.
Practicalities
I am based in London in the UK. If you would like to arrange an in-person event that involves significant travel, please note that per diem and travel expenses would be required in addition to author fees.
For all in-person appointments please contact my publisher and/or your local bookseller in advance of the scheduled event, as I won’t be able to travel until the supply of books for sale is confirmed.
📚 How many classic Kid Lit characters can you spot in this picture?
📮 Is your class reading one of my books? Send an address and I'll write you a postcard!