Inspire young readers
Talkabook connects kids with real authors in interactive, virtual Visits. Browse hundreds of programs created by certified authors and illustrators for early readers through young adults. Schedule a Visit today.
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Check out our Programs
Arts
Too Many Visitors for One Little House -- Music Enrichment
Sometimes including someone in your event can turn someone crabby, angry or mean into someone nice. Too Many Visitors for One Little House picture book explores the them of being included with Songs, Dance and Theater. In this presentation kids will read the story together, understand the themes of the power of inclusion and learn a song from the…
30 Minute Program
Laughs and surprises (and cartoons!) for little readers
Kevin reads two of his interactive pictures books - Gargantua Jr: Defender of Earth and Super-Duper Monster Viewer - then leads the kids in a simple cartooning 'class'.
30 Minute Program
$125
Struttin' With Some Barbecue: Write a rhythmic poem
Patricia will do a lively reading of a syncopated rhythmic poem, describe how she wrote it--with Power Point visuals--then with the group write an original rhythmic poem (with an anapest or triple rhythm)--using rhythm, rhyme, repetition, alliteration. She'll encourage the students to (later) listen to their favorite music and write a poem in the…
30 Minute Program
$129
Careers
Coffee Chat: So You Want to Be a Writer
Fill your mug, literal and metaphorical, with creative fuel during this casual chat, geared for adults. If you're considering a career as a writer, there's a place for you at this table. Beth will share her journey to breaking into the industry and insight for those interested in learning more about publishing.
30 Minute Program
$150
Learning through Nature - Swimming with Penguins, Searching for Night
Does your child or classroom love wildlife, especially unique wildlife? Come on an adventure to the Galápagos Islands, where we'll discuss the amazing animals that live there, as well as explore the life of biologist Valentina Cruz, who was born and raised on one of the remote islands. We'll touch on the challenges facing the Galápagos animals,…
45 Minute Program
$250
SPARK: A Passion for Animals
In the Spark A Passion for Animals presentation (Grades 5-12) students will learn how their passion for animals can lead to a successful career as well as help save lives along the way.
45 Minute Program
$129
Education
Technology and STEM: HOW do you want to live when you grow up?
Ask yourself HOW you want to live while you grow up, not the old “WHAT do you want TO BE." Kids are being driven toward robot competitions and 'learning to code' when there are myriad careers available in tech beyond just the mythical rockstar coder and lead designer/inventor. Success takes teams, trials and time.
45 Minute Program
$275
LEARNING ABOUT OPPOSITES!
Although the concept of “opposites” might not be easy for children to grasp with words, if we play the game "Up and Down and Up, " they will have lots of fun while learning. This session is based on the chapter "Opposites" from Connie's book, DANCE, TURN, HOP, LEARN! ENRICHING MOVEMENT ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOLERS. During this playful and energetic…
30 Minute Program
$100
Turning History Into Fantasy
Have you ever heard that there are two sides to every story? Well, that's not true. There are, in fact, THREE sides to every story! Learn about the three sides of history, and how to use this triangle of facts and fancy to write stellar historical fiction and fantasy!
30 Minute Program
Fiction
Lions, Tigers, and Bears...oh my!!!
Have you ever been to a circus? Have you ever seen a clown or dressed up as one? Well, clowns are pretty special. Did you know that clowns go to school, too? Don't forget to bring your crayons or markers, and some blank drawing paper...
45 Minute Program
$129
$149
5-Minute Poems
Can young children write poetry? Of course! Your child will learn how to write a poem in 5 minutes!
30 Minute Program
$150
History
Who am I?
I will read my 4th book in The American HerStory Series, "Remembering Green" and we will talk about our Indigenous People and the discrimination and hardships they've endured since "being discovered" by early European settlers.
45 Minute Program
$149
Raise Your Voice: Stories of Inspiring Women
Kathy MacMillan, co-author of She Spoke: 14 Women Who Raised Their Voices and Changed the World, highlights inspirational women who spoke up for change.
30 Minute Program
$200
Meet the Creator
YOU ARE AN AUTHOR!
We all have stories to tell. Children are authors too, and this program will give them the confidence to share their ideas and stories and to BELIEVE that their ideas count!
30 Minute Program
The Making of a Story: From Idea to First Draft
How do you find ideas for your stories? Let's explore together! What happens next with a good idea? Crafting a story is a process where each step is important, but it could also be a bit tricky. Not to worry -- we can make each element of a good story fun and easy to follow!
45 Minute Program
$290
Meet Carol L. Paur
Can't meet me in person? Join me as I read from Isasnora Snores, talk about my writing, and answer your questions.
30 Minute Program
Nature & Animals
True or False: Animal Fact Fun-xplosion!
Q: True or False: The world's largest animal could fit three motorcycles on its jaw.
A: Your animal lover will tell you the answer once they participate in our highly engaging, super silly, and very factual 30-minute visit.
30 Minute Program
$100
Arctic Polar Bear Bash!
Willow wants to introduce you to her Arctic friends! Hear her story and explore the Arctic. Makes a great birthday celebration -- includes one signed copy of JUST SO WILLOW and goody bags for up to 10 children.
30 Minute Program
$120
OCEAN AND RAIN FOREST ANIMALS -Nat'l Geographic concept books
Janet will share her Nat’l. Geographic books, OCEAN COUNTING (National Science Teachers Association Outstanding Trade Science Book) and RAIN FOREST COLORS in an entertaining session that provides an introduction to nonfiction to young audiences.
30 Minute Program
$125
Nonfiction
YOUNG ADULT NOVEL/YOUNG ADULT MEMOIR
Young Adult Novels & Young Adult Memoirs: Read and Write Books That Define You. Smart, Honest, Engaging, and Brilliant.
45 Minute Program
$500
WHAT DO YOU WONDER?
What do clouds feel like? How fast does the world's fastest train go?
Wonder has always driven my book ideas and writing and it's help me develop a love of research. During this program, I'll talk with participants about the types of research I do and how they could be doing the same sort of investigating.
30 Minute Program
$115
HEAR THE WIND BLOW: LEARNING TO RECOGNIZE THE VISIBLE SIGNS OF AIR IN MOTION!
Let’s find out how to watch the wind and predict an oncoming storm! Join author Doe Boyle for a poetic exploration of the ways that visible physical signs can help us "see" the wind--the invisible force of air on the move! This workshop introduces wind science and the Beaufort Wind Force Scale of wind velocity to up to 10 attendees.
45 Minute Program
$175
People & Places
Hidden Mysteries in a National Park
National Parks are a great vacation destination. But what if while you are in a park you spot something happening that you know isn't right? You put on your super sleuth hat and become a hero. Join Ben and Bekka Cooper on a vacation/mystery trip of a lifetime and learn how you can experience those same places. Just don't forget your camera or…
30 Minute Program
Telling Stories About Our Background
Create a poem about your own family background! Participants learn an exercise that Torran used to create a group poem with Norwegian students called, “You Bring Out the Norwegian in Me.”
45 Minute Program
$129
How to Tell a Life - Writing About Real People
Author Michelle Houts remembers making a beeline to B section in her elementary and middle school libraries. B for Biographies. For the reader who loves to devour stories of real people and/or the young writer whose favorite assignments are reports about world-changers and the fascinatingly famous, this visit will be a fun look into what it's like…
45 Minute Program
$200
Picture Books, Pre-K & Early Readers
Sunday Rain Storytime and Craft
Storytime with Elliott, the dragon from his book, the brave princess and the making of new friendships. What is the power of imagination? In my book, SUNDAY RAIN, Elliott discovers that making new friends is like reading a new book -- you just have to plunge into the adventure!
30 Minute Program
$125
Be Resilient: Motivation for All
Have you ever felt like you wanted to quit or not complete a task when it became difficult? I have but I also learned that life goes on with or without you. Most humans do not want to be left behind or alone. So, before you regret your actions like me, let’s talk about being resilient!
30 Minute Program
$129
Author Presentation - Picture Books, Sheep Jokes, Sheep Math, Sheep Facts, and Sheep Crafts!
The program revolves around my bedtime counting picture book, TEN SHEEP TO SLEEP. We'll read the book, do math, answer riddles, learn how to write a picture book, and two activities (time permitting).
The student(s) will require a pre-cut template, cotton, colors, glue, pencil, googly eyes (optional).
Students will get an opportunity to feature…
30 Minute Program
$110
Science & Technology
Solve This!
Engineers are the champions of problem-solving. You can be a champion, too! Expect to tackle kid-friendly engineering challenges and find out what engineers and authors have in common. Bring a paper, pencil, and eraser to this STEM-friendly get-together.
30 Minute Program
$149
A PLACE FOR PLUTO: Finding Your Place in the Universe
Calling all space fans! Join Author Stef Wade for an out-of-this-world exploration of space and everyone's favorite dwarf planet, Pluto! You will enjoy a reading of Stef's award-winning A PLACE FOR PLUTO, as well as discover more about planets, the solar system, and following your dreams!
30 Minute Program
$200
Dot to Dot in the Sky
Find out how to locate the North Star, spot constellations, and tell the difference between a star and planet. Discover the stories that connect us to the night sky, as we explore the wonders of the universe.
45 Minute Program
$249
Self & Relationships
The Bible! Welcome to TheBibleDare.org!
Why Read the Bible? I Dare You!
Learn more about the best-selling book of all time, the writing and creation of The Bible Dare app and project, including why I started reading and continue to study the Bible, reasons for reading the Bible, with opportunities to ask questions about the Bible.
45 Minute Program
$150
UNITY ROCKS! Getting Excited About Diversity!
Through drama, storytelling, and music, young people will discover the power of “Unity in Diversity.” Using the award-winning book, The Nightingale's Song, as a springboard, participants from ages 1-100 will see themselves and their neighbours as precious, just the way they are.
30 Minute Program
$125
UPPER ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE GRADE NOVELS
UPPER ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE GRADE NOVELS
"JOEY PIGZA" SERIES /ADHD/A FUNNY, SMART, WINNER OF A KID!
45 Minute Program
$500
Skills, Hobbies & Interests
Play Well, Write Well!
My book, JAYLA JUMPS IN, came as the result of me playing a childhood game! With PLAY WELL, we talk about the story behind some toys, sports and games. Bring paper and pen.
45 Minute Program
$299
Research, Write, Revise!: A Nonfiction Writer's Process
Sarah gives kids a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to be a nonfiction writer, and then shares some fascinating research stories and cool historical anecdotes that kids definitely won't find in their textbooks.
45 Minute Program
$300
Creative adventure with a plain piece of paper
We’ll get creative with papers: Crumple, fold, cut, tear, paint and glue. Our imagination will lead us on this fun journey all the way to a surprising artwork
30 Minute Program
Social Themes
Telling Stories About COVID-19
Participants write and share about the challenges of COVID-19
45 Minute Program
$129
The Number Pi, Revolution, and the Power of Math to Change the World
Learn some of the mathematics behind the fascinating number pi (the key to unlocking the secrets of the circle and for that matter many far-flung secrets of the universe). And explore, too, some of the history of this elusive number, which will take you into the life of Archimedes and also, centuries later, the life of his spiritual brother, Jurij…
30 Minute Program
A PLACE FOR PLUTO: Finding Your Place in the Universe
Calling all space fans! Join Author Stef Wade for an out-of-this-world exploration of space and everyone's favorite dwarf planet, Pluto! You will enjoy a reading of Stef's award-winning A PLACE FOR PLUTO, as well as discover more about planets, the solar system, and following your dreams!
30 Minute Program
$200
World & Culture
Dig Deep! How to Find Facts and Reliable Sources
The past is what happened. History is the stories we choose to tell about the past. Now more than ever, new stories with varying perspectives are being discovered and shared. Sarah shows kids how to find facts and assess online sources to tell the best stories they can.
45 Minute Program
$300
Tovi the Penguin goes to Paris / Storytelling Workshop
Come on a little journey to Paris with Tovi the Penguin.
Tovi is the main character of my children's book series Tovi the Penguin.
My books are essentially about friendship. The penguins go on little adventures together and things don't always go as planned. It gives the young (and older) reader something exciting to explore together, as they…
30 Minute Program
$300
The Complete Beginner's Guide to Magic
What's the most fun part of writing a fantasy book? Why, the magic, of course! Come learn about the different types of magic in your favorite fantasy stories, and all the things you need to think about when you're getting ready to make your own!
45 Minute Program
$129
Writing & Illustrating
You're An Author Too!
From giving a giraffe a back scratch to dancing in toilet paper to revising, students come to learn that their writing process isn't much different from mine. We're ALL authors! (This program is intended for school groups.)
45 Minute Program
$129
Meet the Illustrator, Hear the Story, Draw the FIRE TRUCK!
Meet illustrator, Shanda McCloskey! First, she'll read Fire Truck vs. Dragon (written by Chris Barton), then teach you (step-by-step) how to draw FIRE TRUCK from the story! Shanda also welcomes conversation and questions.
30 Minute Program
$150
5-Minute Poems
Can young children write poetry? Of course! Your child will learn how to write a poem in 5 minutes!
30 Minute Program
$150