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

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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

From Kimball Elementary School, Kimball, Michigan
"I loved the part where you read part of the new story and asked their opinion.  It really engaged them in an authentic way.  
"The students and teachers were all thrilled!  When you read your own work aloud, the magic in the words came out even more."
Shelley Harding, Principal

From Ithaca South Elementary, Ithaca, Michigan
"The students are still checking out your books and they can now attach a person to the story.  They get really excited about that.  The teachers made numerous comments that they really enjoyed the program and thought it was very age appropriate.
Suzanne Derry, Librarian

From Portage District Library, Portage, Michigan
"It was obvious that you captivated the audiences here and that the children were enthralled with your clever words and fascinating box of interesting and fun 'recycled' things...You certainly have a magic formula for connecting with children, Nancy--enchanting stories...and entertaining presentation!"
Christine Berro, Library Director           Christy Klien, Head of Youth Services

Darbydale, Ohio second graders
"Thank you for coming to our school...You were very nice and really funny. I had a very good time. I think everyone had a very good time."

"Everyone enjoyed you sharing your pictures of you and your family. I like the funny parts...That day was fantastic. Are you going to go to different schools?"

From Riverside Academy East, Dearborn, Michigan
"Everyone in the school can't stop thinking and referring to the day you were with us. Our students are very proud and feel empowered by the hints you shared with them about being excellent writers. Thank you... for instilling your enthusiasm regarding books, writing and life."
Mounia Sedrati, Librarian