Photo courtesy of Rainbow City Public Library
Reading to students of John S. Jones Elementary School
and others in a Rainbow City (Alabama) Public Library program

Students at Pittsfield Elementary School in
Ann Arbor, Michigan,with some help from
Borders employees, showed their creativity:


Sheep figures

Making fancy masks for Sheep Trick or Treat

Fifth grader Zachary made this wearable jeep!

How Do You Make a Book?

In my elementary-school visits, I read my stories and talk about how an idea turns into a book. How many tries does it take to get the story right? (A lot!) At what stage is it important to get the details and the spelling right? What does the editor do? What does the illustrator do? How is the book put together?

I show samples from the different parts of the process. I usually bring a slide show for larger audiences.

For grades 4 and up, I concentrate on how to write for different audiences. I may share a work in progress.

Programs can be adjusted to suit the school's needs. I love to take questions from the audience. If there are questions left over, I ask the school to send them to me, and I'll write an answer back.

For advice on making a school visit successful, click on www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com/librarians/schoolvisits/

For information on availability, fees, and program specifics, please contact me, or one of my publishers.

Nancy Shaw

Comments from Kerby Elementary School, Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan
"Thanks for creating a wonderful experience and lasting memories for our students!"
Maureen Rembisz, Principal

"You have become many of our students' favorite author.  I've heard from the first grade teachers that you've inspired lots of reading and writing.  Thank you for giving so much pleasure to so many people."
Anne Maurer, Media Specialist

From the Benton Harbor (Michigan) Public Library
"We loved having you here in Benton Harbor with us and have received many, many favorable comments from the attendees. Your presentations were both fun and informative...it was the perfect way to get the word out about the importance of reading to your children..."
Susan Kading, Children's Librarian