SKYPE
Makiia is available for 20-30 minute Skype visits with classrooms worldwide. Visits are typically moderated by a teacher or librarian and consist of a short author introduction and Q&A. Visits are most successful when students are familiar with A Death-Struck Year-they may have read it together as a class, or a teacher/librarian has read it aloud.
SCHOOLS, CONFERENCES, AND FESTIVALS
Makiia would be happy to visit your school, conference, or festival! She currently offers the following presentations, which can be tailored to middle school, high school, and adult audiences:
A DEATH-STRUCK YEAR: THE HISTORY BEHIND THE STORY
Although the characters in A Death-Struck Year are fictional, the events that took place are not. A look at the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918, as well as the heroes who inspired the novel.
WRITING HISTORICAL FICTION:
OR, HOW RESEARCH AND CREATIVITY GO HAND IN HAND
Writing a story set in the past requires special detective skills. Effective research strategies are discussed, using early twentieth-century Portland, Oregon as an example.
CAREER DAY: A WRITER’S LIFE
What’s it really like to be a writer? An eye-opening look into the world of writing and publishing, from first draft to finished book and beyond.
For additional information, or to book a visit (in person or via Skype), please contact Suzie Townsend, suzie (at) newleafliterary (dot) com.