I briefly introduce the
novels I've written. I discuss how I became a writer and the role
stories played in my life. I share with the students samples of my early
stories and journals (pretty embarrassing now, but enlightening for
students). I encourage them to see that they can capture their own
reality by writing fiction. If I am speaking to students in sixth grade
or below, I talk about The Very Real Ghost
Book of Christina Rose and The Mystery Club
of Luna Drive, discuss how the story and characters were created,
and read portions to illustrate the points I'm making.
If I am speaking to students
in the seventh grade or higher, I mention Christina Rose and the Mystery
Club, but spend more time talking about 3
NBs of Julian Drew; I read and discuss examples of character
development. I allow time for questions at the end. In both cases,
students will benefit most if they have been introduced to (or read) my
novel that's most appropriate for their age level.
