Inspiring Readers and Writers

Author school visits bring books to life.

But I don’t just talk about books—although I love talking books. I seek to inspire students, build writing skills and creativity practices, and infuse attendees with confidence both in their writing journeys and their lives.

I am available to visit schools as well as festivals, conferences, and writing centers.

(Tip for schools: Be sure to check out the Presentations for Children and Teens section below, where I list specific talks you can choose from.)

Scroll down for information about my presentations.

Presentations for Children and Teens

I’m always open to tailoring my presentations to your students’ needs. But here are some favorite presentations I’ve done in recent years.
(Note: I can be booked for one, two, or three sessions in one day. All sessions include a question-and-answer time at the end.)

Everyday Poets: Celebrating the Wonder and Magic of Poetry

The Colors of the Rain and This is Who We are are Rachel’s novels written entirely in verse. How can poetry tell a story? In this author talk, Rachel discusses the narrative nature of poetry, the strategies that go into crafting effective poetry, and why poetry is an important addition to any reader’s reading list. Using her own poetry and that of her favorite poets, she gives students exercises in interpretation, strategies for playing with language, and tips for making poems a regular part of their day.

(Tailored for specific age groups, grades 3-12)

The Writing Advantage: How Journaling Can Improve Your Life

Most students journal, in one way or another, at school, but what about at home? In this author talk, Rachel discusses the ways journaling can help students process through emotions, tell stories about their days, and heal from both big and small hurts. Using examples from her own personal journals and sharing the details of her own journaling practice, she’ll teach students strategies for journaling, making a habit of it, and using it to help clarify and improve their lives.

(Tailored for specific age groups, grades 3-12)

Creativity Connection: How Art Helps You Process Disappointments

In The Colors of the Rain, The Woods, The First Magnificent Summer, This is Who We Are, and many other of Rachel’s stories, characters use art to help process through difficult emotions; Paulie uses art to make sense of his father’s death, and Lenora’s Uncle Richard uses scientific creation—the building of steam-run robots—and journaling to process through the loss of his family. Victoria uses writing to process the emotions of a difficult relationship with her father; Mason dances to cope with his cousin’s death. In this author talk, Rachel discusses the importance of creative expression to help process difficult emotions and life events, express the inexpressible, and pave the way back toward emotional health. Using examples from her own writing—including songwriting—she provides students with strategies for expressing their deepest thoughts and emotions through creative means, building a practice of creative expression, and making space for healing.

(Tailored for specific age groups, grades 3-12)

Preparations for the visit

School visits, in general, tend to be more beneficial for students who have read at least one of my books (with the exception of early elementary; I have picture books in the works). For your convenience, I’ve provided a helpful list of my published books, broken down by appropriate grade level.

Sometimes schools have chosen to have the entire school read a book, and these visits are always riotous fun. Book discussions are highly enjoyable when people are familiar with the book.

Once booked, I will check in with schools about a month before a visit to discuss any details that might need ironing out. A schedule of the day would be appreciated at least two weeks before my visit (what can I say? I’m a planner.).