School Visits

My very favorite thing about writing for children is connecting with young readers.

There’s nothing better than being in a classroom full of kids who are excited, engaged, and ready to talk books! During my author visits I…

…discuss ideas and where they come from. (Spoiler alert: everywhere!)

…share the power of the “stinky” first draft and the importance of a good critique.

…emphasize the three most important factors in reaching any goal – hard work, perseverance, and belief in oneself.

Author visit information sheet


Choose from one of the following options, or contact me about crafting a presentation to fit your specific needs:

THE TRUE STORY OF A NONFICTION BOOK

Adaptable for grades 1-5 (45-50 minutes)

Discover how The Great Stink went from idea to book, as I discuss the steps of my writing process, including the importance of the stinky first draft, multiple revisions, and tricking yourself into working hard.

DISCOVER.WONDER. EXPLORE. REPEAT.

Ideal for grades 3-5 (50-55 minutes)

Take a deep dive into the research and revision process, as I share some of my favorite ways to conduct research and offer easy-to-use tips that make revising your work both fun and fruitful.

THE GREAT STINK READING PLUS Q&A

Ideal for grades 1-3 (30-45 minutes)

Sit back. Relax. And enjoy a not-so-stinky story time as I read THE GREAT STINK and answer student’s questions. I always keep a handful of images on hand to add visual interest to my answers.

Request a Visit:

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HONORARIUM*

  • Full day of up to six presentations: $1000, plus travel expenses**
  • Single presentation: $500, plus travel expenses**
  • Single virtual visit: $250

*California school may be able to get author visit funding through Prop 28.

**Travel expenses are waived within 50 miles of downtown Los Angeles, CA or San Mateo, CA.

Teachers say:

“Colleen Paeff’s author visit truly brought the magic of writing narrative nonfiction to life for my students…[her] informative and engaging presentation had hem captivated and curious.”

Cheryl Cleary, 4th Grade Teacher
Larchmont Charter School

“Colleen’s patience and love shone through as she allowed for the questions at the end. She made the students feel important and sparked their interest to become writers.”

Janet Ramdeen, 2nd Grade Teacher
Franklin Avenue Elementary

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