COVID-19 update: Due to the pandemic, I'm offering virtual school visits until further notice. More info below!
I’m available for author visits to your school or library. My interactive presentations offer a behind-the-scenes look at the process behind picture book creation and inspire kids to follow their curiosity and passions. Most of my books are geared for the K-3 age group, but the presentations can be tailored to older students as well (especially for my nonfiction books like JUST RIGHT which tie in nicely with Common Core curricula.) I am also happy to do career-oriented presentations for the older set. Read on to learn more about available presentation topics and structure, speaking fees and booking information.
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All presentations begin with a brief introduction where I show childhood drawings and the early sparks of inspiration that led to a career as an author and illustrator. Then I dive into the process behind my writing and illustrating, from research to revision to production and, finally, the finished product. Along the way I include photos, video clips, anecdotes and interactive activities to keep the students engaged. The presentation runs 30-40 minutes, which leaves approximately 15 minutes for questions and a drawing demonstration.
Email me at hello@jessicalanan.com for information about event availability and fees. Your local bookstore can help handle book orders and sales. (I recommend Tattered Cover, Second Star to the Right and Boulder Bookstore to name a few local options.) For in-person events, I bring my presentation either as a PowerPoint file on a flash drive or Google Slides presentation available online. I’ll need a computer, projector, and screen, and a microphone for large spaces. Speakers for sound are helpful but not essential.