Sample Presentations

• Kids Really Can Change the World. This presentation works best with those students familiar with my middle-grade novel Daisy Woodworm Changes the World. We look at ways in which young people have affected change in their neighborhoods and cities, and we brainstorm similar projects and simple action plans for individual and/or class projects.

• Tell Your Story. This workshop teaches students of any age the basics of storytelling including characterization, setting and sensory details, plot, conflict, and surprise. With thoughtful prompts, students write an exciting story from their life in prose or poetry form.

• What It’s Really Like to Be a Writer. I share stories and images from my first forays into professional writing at age 14 and show students images of my writing space and schedule, plus pictures of my rough drafts and my revision process. I provide handouts with links to magazines/newspapers that publish student work and explain how to submit their writing.

• Insects Rule! This lively presentation works well with either of my middle-grade novels, as both include amateur entomologist characters. Students learn about the role of insects in pollination, decomposition, and a valuable source of protein. As well, we examine bugs that roll dung, spin steel-strong webs, and fart a powerful toxin to kill predators.

• Hurrah for Birds of Prey. This presentation works best with students familiar with my middle-grade novel Avenging the Owl. I define raptors and their importance to the ecosystem, along with how to preserve habitat. I share stories and images from my years as a volunteer at a raptor center, and we dissect owl pellets or do a nature-based writing assignment.

“Melissa is a wonderful author and teacher--enthusiastic, humorous, and kindhearted. Students are engaged and have plenty of questions for her.”

—Nora Haggerty, Adams Elementary