For me, the best part of writing is getting to share my books and the passion I have for reading and learning with children and families in the Dayton, Ohio area. I love to visit schools, community centers, libraries and just about anywhere else that will host me!
Program Information:
Each author talk includes information about my personal background and career as a writer, a book reading or excerpt and a Q&A time. Of course, the content of the talk will vary a little depending on the age group and interests of the audience. When possible, I prefer to do author visits for smaller groups (less than 30 kids at a time) so that I can interact more easily with the audience. If your class or group has particular areas of the writing/publishing process that you would like discussed, this can be arranged, just make sure to mention it ahead of time.
I also give inspirational talks on occasion. These talks are normally about overcoming the obstacles, disabilities and problems that often get in the way of achieving success and fulfilling our dreams. During these events I talk about how I overcame my own obstacles (being diagnosed as Autistic and coming from a background of poverty and family mental illness), in order to achieve my own lifelong dream of becoming an award-winning author. These inspirational events can be tailored for audiences of any age.
Costs:
I do charge a small fee for school author visits and other public speaking events. For schools and organizations close to the Dayton, Ohio area, I charge between $25 – $100 for each presentation (price depending on the size of the group and what technology is needed). For author talks farther away from home, I do add costs for the extra time and travel.
Contact information:
If your school or organization is interested in having me come for a visit, please feel free to email me at Shojobeatgirl@live.com or contact me on my Facebook fan page.
Recommendations from past event sponsors:
“Recently Maranda Russell came to our school to share with students about being a writer. She talked to nearly two dozen classes over three days, and make quite an impact. We found her to be so flexible in her scheduling, and working with us on book orders. She shared Ode to Icky with students, and talked about the components of writing in a way that students could relate to. It was a highlight of our spring.” ~ Steven Shank, Principal of Fairborn Primary Elementary School
“Maranda Russell visited our school, Broadway Elementary, which is a K through 3 building. She captivated all grade levels with her entertaining picture book, Ode to Icky. Teachers and students enjoyed the delightful story of Candy and Icky. I would highly recommend Mrs. Russell for an author visit to any elementary and intermediate school.” ~ Jane Malafa, Librarian at Broadway Elementary School
“It was a delight to have Maranda Russell join us at Decoy Art Boutique & Studio to read her picture book, ‘Ode to Icky’, to the children and then lead them in a workshop where they created their own stories. Her feedback was priceless and she added so much excitement to their own creativity. We can’t wait to work with her again and would highly recommend her for your next event.” ~ Tabitha Guidone, Owner, Decoy Art Boutique & Studio http://decoy-art.com/
“Maranda Russell’s book reading ‘Ode to Icky’ was a delight for our visitors at Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center for Children & Families. It was a fun and interactive experience for the children and quite exciting to actually do Q&A with the author! I highly recommend inviting Maranda to your next event.” ~ Lisa Patrick-Wright, Program Director/Facilitator, Grass Roots Enrichment and Wellness Center www.grassrootsenrichment.com
Upcoming events:
March 30, 2013 – SWAN Day Dayton, 2pm, Main Library, Dayton, Ohio
April 21, 2013 – Evening of Poetic Art, 5-7 pm, Town & Country Shopping Center, Kettering, Ohio
April 27th, 2013 – Healthy Kids Day, Coffman YMCA, Springboro, Ohio
