GOALS:

To introduce children to the research techniques and writing processes that work seamlessly inside the historical novels they love.

To provide tips and techniques students can use in their own projects.

And to equip teachers with fresh angles for teaching the basics of writing.

ACTIVITIES:

Through surprising anecdotes and lively audience participation, author Kathleen Kudlinski demonstratesthe rewards of research.

Then Kudlinski shows how to choose your historical sweet spot, build a period character firmly set in history, create a lively plot, and devise a satisfying ending that proves a theme you believe in.

Finally, the steps of pre-writing, writing, revising, and revising under editorial direction are illustrated with the actual working manuscripts of a book that has been published.

PRESENTER:

Kathleen Kudlinski is the author of 38 children’s books, including ten middle grade historical novels. They include Pearl Harbor, a Story of World War II; Earthquake; A Story of Old San Francisco; Facing West, A Story of the Oregon Trail, among others. Kudlinski is an experienced classroom teacher who frequently visits libraries and classrooms across New England. She also leads writing groups for adults and tweens.

AUDIENCE: Gr. 3-8

TIME: 1hr.

COST:

$300 per program; $1000 for four presentations in one day.
Books may be sold to offset the cost of this program and increase its impact on students.

CONTACT: Kathleen Kudlinski at kathkud AT aol or by phone at 203-457-9185.