School Visits
Elissa is a seasoned speaker to groups of all ages at schools, festivals, and
conferences. Her interactive, dynamic presentations get students fired up
about reading and writing.
BOOKINGS, RATES, & MORE INFO
Contact Elissa
elissa@ebweissman.com
Book through Simon & Schuster
author.appearances@simonandschuster.com
“You inspired me to try writing a book.”
– JACK C., fifth grade
“You turned my son into a reader. Thank you!”
– Mom of fourth grader, Tujunga, CA
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Most popular presentation!
The Great Author Game Show
Elissa hosts a Jeopardy!-style game for your class or school, complete with dollar-bill bookmarks and nerd-tastic prizes. This presentation is jam-packed with information about writing and publishing with a big emphasis on revision
and perseverance, all in an interactive, fun format that keeps kids guessing—literally!
Writing Workshops
Elissa has taught creating writing to children, college students, and adults. She can tailor a workshop to fit your needs, infectious enthusiasm included.
Potential Topics for Kids:
Beginnings and Endings, Writing in Slow Motion, In Your Character’s Socks
Potential Topics for Adults:
Writing for the Current Children’s Market, Crafting Authentic Dialogue, Focus on Voice
The Story Behind The Length of a String
Get a behind-the-scenes look at The Length of a String, which blends historical and contemporary fiction. Elissa shares photos, videos, and drafts-in-progress to show how she created this award-winning book. Interactive and insightful, with an emphasis on family history, inspiration, and the importance of research.
Our Story Begins
What does it take to put together an anthology? Inspiration, collaboration, and lots of hard work. Elissa shares the process of creating and editing Our Story Begins, from a box in a basement to a star-studded lineup of authors and illustrators. This funny, interactive presentation ends with a chance to write your own anthology entry. Where will your story go?
“Truly a delight to have. The teachers all raved about the quality of the presentations.”
–Amy W., Library and Media Specialist
“It was a great time coming to your assembly. I loved the fun game of Jeopardy.”
– Emily H., fifth grader
“Very sincere thanks for visiting our school. When I hear someone giggle during free reading time, it’s usually one of your books. You were our first author visit since I’ve been teaching here, and I am so thankful to you. You made a BIG impact on our students.”
– Jan T., fouth grade teacher
“I used to not read, but now I really want to read your books.”
– Madelyn G., fourth grader
“You’re an inspiration to me. You showed me to persevere even if people tell you that you can’t do it. It’s very easy to forget about things like that, but now when I’m having a hard time doing things, I’ll instantly think of you, because 2 years on one book!”
– Serene C., fifth grader
“The Jeopardy game took the boys through the entire publishing process. It was creative and engaging. Our boys ate it up.”
– Terri F., Librarian
“Thank you so much for the best performance ever. You inspired me to write a short story of my own and my parents loved it. Than you so so so much.”
– Autumn H., fifth grader