“I just loved the creative backstories Penny makes up, mixed in with their actual backstories. This could be a great creative writing spin-off activity for English classes fortunate to have this story read aloud or assigned to them.”
Writing Workshops for Kids
I am a member of the Writers in the Schools program through the Writer’s Federation of Nova Scotia. I offer a couple of options for fiction writing workshops for kids. In one, students learn how to write an imaginary pet adventure story (aka their very own pet tale!) and in the other students learn how to write a story about being brave, even if anxious feelings try to stop them. We talk about brainstorming, jot notes, outlining, and the writing process - and we have a lot of fun!
I’m also always open to to creating a custom workshop for your group based on your interests or learning outcomes. This is available for schools, homeschool groups, and extra-curricular groups, such as guides and scouts.
Please visit the Writer’s Federation of Nova Scotia for more details on pricing and availability.
I’m available for a variety of appearances - some examples are below. Please contact me about pricing for workshops and special events outside of schools. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please reach out and we can see if we can work something out!
Reading and Q&A
In this 30-minute session, there will be a reading from the novel Pet Tales and then a Q&A with students about being an author including writing inspiration and the path to publishing. Books can be made available for presale and then signed at the event.
Suitable for all ages
Special Events
I’m available to host a table at literary events for children with activities, readings, and book signings. I’ve been a featured author at Afterwords Kids Day, Booktoberfest, and the Doggie Expo, and connected with hundreds of kid and adult readers each day.
Suitable for all ages
Book Clubs
Available to attend local to HRM or virtual book clubs and discuss the writing process and behind-the-scenes info about the creation of Pet Tales.
Suitable for middle-elementary and up
Writing Workshops
i offer two writing workshops for schools and community groups. One focuses on writing a pet adventure based on a pet’s personality, and the other writes a story about being brave, even if anxious feelings try to stop you. We talk about brainstorming, jot notes, outlining, and the writing process - and we have a lot of fun!
The full workshop is ideal for students in the latter half of grade 3 to 6, however there is also modified version of each available for P-2/3.
Download a free Pet Tales cover colouring page by clicking the image below.
“I loved her idea for integrating animal adoption into a more mainstream environment and loved the story! This would make a wonderful read-aloud to introduce further classroom discussion of many curriculum-based outcomes. It is obvious Heidi speaks from the heart.”