General presentation about my (slightly unconventional) journey to becoming a writer. This includes an introduction to my books, readings and a Q&A.
Creative writing workshops on a variety of subjects – everything from creating amazing characters that leap off the page, to finding inspiration in objects, music and images.
Preferred age range:
KS2 - KS5 Maximum number in any one session:
Talks: Anything goes! I've got a fairly loud voice and am comfortable speaking in front of large groups.
Workshops: 30 (although I have stretched to 60 before!)
Session length:
All my sessions have been designed to adapt to the time I’m given, but as a rough guide, talks (including a Q&A) usually last between 50 and 60 minutes. Workshops can be as short as 40 minutes, or as long as 90 minutes. I'm flexible, basically!
Books sales:
If you'd like the opportunity for students to buy my books on the day, that's great! Your local bookshop should be able to help. If not, I can bring along some books to sell. Just let me know in advance, and be aware that I can only physically carry a limited number of each title! I'm happy to sign all copies of my books, old and new.
Areas prepared to travel to:
Anywhere, schedule allowing.
Transport:
I always travel by public transport and by the cheapest mode possible to keep costs down.
Fees:
In terms of pricing, I use the Society of Authors guidelines of £495 for a full day, £350 for a half-day and £200 for a one-hour session (London only), plus reasonable travel and accommodation (where applicable) expenses. If you're a state school with a limited budget, drop me a line and I'll see what I can do.
Testimonials:
"Lisa offers a thoroughly engaging and charming session that enthuses even the most book-averse students. We can't recommend her highly enough." Alex Mees, Librarian, Sedgehill School, London
"We were lucky enough to have Lisa visit us at Oldham Sixth Form College in April 2019. She gave a talk and Q&A to a large group of students, many of whom stayed behind to ask questions. Lisa stayed with us for the remainder of the day and delivered creative writing workshops to students of diverse abilities. One student commented: “Lisa’s workshop was really good fun! It’s so great to get the opportunity to do creative writing and Lisa gave really good comments and feedback. She was open and non-judgmental about our writing and was genuinely interested.” I would not hesitate to recommend Lisa to any organisation as a guest author. Her enthusiasm and ability to relate to young people is second to none." Abigail Blythe, Learning Resources Facilitator, Oldham Sixth Form College
"We have been lucky enough to have Lisa visit our school three times now & she never fails to inspire our students. Her sessions are lively & engaging & Lisa interacts really well with the students. Her books fly off the shelves after her visits which is all a librarian can ask for!" Deborah Corton, Librarian, Arnold Hill Academy, Nottingham
"Lisa’s visit was absolutely wonderful. She had our Year 9 and 10 students enthralled as she spoke about her career to date, about becoming a writer and the life experiences and processes that led to the publication of The Art of Being Normal. They were especially thrilled to hear extracts from her books, with many students asking to reserve the library copies for the next several days after. Lisa allowed time at the end for students to ask lots of questions, even providing the opportunity for a student to win a signed book which was a real treat. The book signing after was very busy, with students queuing throughout all of lunchtime to be able to talk to Lisa and buy a signed book. We look forward to having Lisa back in the future as she was a pleasure to have with us for the day!" Lisa Jowlett, Librarian, Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls, West Midlands
"Lisa gave a talk to our Year 9 students about her career path and read entertaining passages from her books. The students were engrossed throughout and asked lots of interesting questions at the end proving how engaged they had been. Lisa also led a stimulating discussion session with our LGBT Allies Club which was inspiring. I would highly recommend a visit from Lisa." Fiona Kirk, Librarian, Petchey Academy, London
If you have any questions, or would like to make a booking, please do not hesitate to contact me (details on the 'CONTACT' page).