Reading my books and talking about them with kids of all ages is one of my favorite things about being a children’s book illustrator and author. Over the years I have developed an array of presentations for school groups, library groups, and bookstores.

Pre-K through second grade:

During this presentation we read Harriett the Homeless Raccoon, the story of a young raccoon searching for a new home. It’s based on a true adventure that my family and I experienced when a young raccoon tried to take up residence in the attic of our Dallas home. A larger-than-life-sized stuffed raccoon sits by my side, along with a red and white hobo-type bundle exactly like the one on the cover of the book. After the reading I pull from the bundle a few make believe items that Mamma Raccoon might have packed for Harriett’s journey, as well as many plastic replicas of things real raccoons like to eat. By the end of this funny and interactive show-and-tell presentation the children have learned quite a lot about raccoons. My purpose is to entertain and educate, but also warn children about an interesting, often dangerous, wild animal that lives near them, even in the city.

If time permits I also read and discuss another book I illustrated titled, Mocha the Real Doctor. This book, written by Texas author Jane Roberts Wood, is the charming story of Mocha, a creamy yellow cat who lives in a veterinary clinic. Mocha takes care of the sick animals in the clinic when all the human Drs. have gone home for the night.

Third through fifth grade:

While reading my stories for this group I elaborate a bit more on my own personal process writing and illustrating picture books. We look at sketches, book dummies, and prints of the finished art from some of my books. Your students will follow a story from the birth of the idea, through the writing process, the making of the illustrations, as well as a brief description of the printing process. If time permits I demonstrate creating a human or animal character, and work with the class while they draw a quick assignment. Example: creating a scary character.

Sixth grade through high school:

At this level we look at and discuss my work as well as the work of a diverse group of other types of illustrators. We discuss the process of illustrating a picture book from the day the assignment arrives to the day the finished art is sent to the publisher. We also discuss other aspects of what it’s like to do what I do, such as how an illustrator finds work, and the challenges of working at home. Alone!

Finally:

We can also create together, a program to fit your specific curriculum needs and time available. Drawing demos can be added to all presentations as time allows.