I absolutely LOVE coming to classrooms and I fill each session with stories, art, and fun! I have a few interactive presentations below, or I can customize one to suit your needs.
Turning Your Story into a Graphic Novel with Kristin Varner
Option A: Process
Grades 3-7
I explain the creative process behind my book Horse Trouble. The program includes a slideshow presentation showing the progression of initial ideas to finished pages and how the story is inspired and largely based on my own childhood experiences. I give a short talk on character development and what makes a compelling story that will grab readers. If time allows, I will also do a live drawing demonstration. An activity handout that students can complete later in class is also provided.
Option B: Career
Grades 4-7
I introduce myself and dive into my personal journey to becoming the author and illustrator I am today. I explain the general steps it takes to become a traditionally-published author, such as getting an agent and going on submission to publishers. In my talk I answer commonly asked questions such as “how long does it take to make a graphic novel?” and “what happens when another country wants to publish your book but you don’t speak the language?” The program includes a slide presentation and live drawing session.
Option C: Books!
Grades K-2
I briefly discuss my journey to becoming an author and illustrator. I talk about my love of books and how picture books and graphic novels are made and I answer commonly asked questions such as “how long does it take to make a book?” and “I have a great story, will you illustrate it? The program includes a slide presentation, live drawing session and I will do a reading of my illustrated picture book, Pink Cupcake Magic.
All options include a Q&A session and a book signing meet-and-greet where I can sign and sketch in copies of my book, if time allows. Sessions typically runs 40-45 minutes.
Costs:
$300 for one 40 min presentation (up to three classes in one group).
$500 for 2 presentations/half day. (Discounts available for Title 1 Schools)
Travel:
No charge within one hour of Kitsap/Seattle area. (Mileage rates/ferry fees apply for locations outside of this.) For out of the state of Washington, additional flight/hotel costs will apply.
Virtual Visits:
20 Minute Q&A Visit: Free, as long as students are familiar with Horse Trouble and are prepared with questions about the book or graphic novels in general. In addition, teachers are willing to give students an order form for personalized, signed books. (Order form supplied by Liberty Bay Books and are shipped directly to your classroom. No minimum required on the orders)
40 Minute Visit: $150. Presentation and Q&A with same book order details as above.
I look forward to visiting your school and meeting your students! Please contact me for more details and to book your visit!
“Kristin Varner recently visited my school library. She dazzled students with many insights on how she came to write her first graphic novel, Horse Trouble. Her presentation is very personable, engaging and FUN!”
“Kristin visited our class last week and showed us how to draw a horse, talked to us about her book Horse Trouble, and answered questions about creating a graphic novel. It was delightful! Kristin engaged them and spoke with them as fellow authors.”