Linda Ashman

WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS
I do a limited number of school visits, library talks, and speaking engagements in the Denver area, and am happy to consider trips outside the state depending on the details. Costs vary depending on the length of the program and location. Please send all inquiries by email.

Presentations for Adults
I love talking about picture books and writing, and sharing what I've learned about both the creative and business aspects of publishing. I've given presentations to regional chapters of the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI) and the International Reading Association (IRA) about being an author, the writing process, the road to publication, writing in verse, revising, and other topics. I typically give a slide presentation using my laptop computer (I use Keynote, Apple's equivalent of Powerpoint), with plenty of interaction and time for questions. I've also taught longer workshops on writing picture books.

If you're in the Denver area, I'm happy to meet informally with small groups to talk about writing, publishing (or a topic of your choice) and answer questions.

Comments from writing workshops:

"Linda's workshops take participants on a fun-filled tour of all the elements of brilliant
picture books, with lots of wonderful read-aloud examples as well as writing exercises to
get the creative juices flowing. Writers of all levels will come away both informed and energized." Jessica Swaim, author, The Hound from the Pound and more

"I had always wanted to write a children’s picture book and had undeveloped ideas tip-toeing around in my head; however, I didn’t know how to transfer these ideas onto the page – until I took Linda’s class. Linda knows the children’s picture book canon and not only provided a multitude of models to learn from but also suggested examples we could turn to for our specific, individual writing needs. In her workshop, she created the creative catalyst I wanted and the safe space I needed to explore, experiment, write and share." Heather Cyr, Boulder

"Linda's workshop on writing rhyming picture books was terrific! Her easy-going style and a presentation peppered with humor provided great insight and technical guidance. It was a workshop that appealed equally to novice writers as well as published authors such as myself. Linda's expertise in this area really came through, and I think everyone in attendance benefited from her experience--I know I did!" Claudia Cangilla McAdam, author, Do You See What I See?

"Editors consistently say they don't like rhyming manuscripts because most of them are written in 'bad rhyme.' As a picture book writer who likes to write in rhyme, I found myself frustrated by the lack of resources directly related to the art of rhyming well. Then I struck gold in Linda's workshop. It was fun, interactive, hugely informative and the best three hours you can spend if you write in rhyme (or want to)." Julie Hedlund, writer and blogger

"Linda's examples and explanations really gave me insights into what makes a good picture book work. Even though I've published a picture book, I learned so much from Linda and would recommend her workshops to anyone who really wants to understand what it takes to write a stellar picture book!" - Denise Vega, author, Grandmother, Have the Angels Come?

"What a terrific job you did! I have been to quite a few SCBWI workshops, and yours was by far the best I have attended on picture books. My only complaint -- I would have been very happy to have listened to you for the afternoon as well!!" Kathleen Pelley, author, Inventor McGregor

"Thanks for a great class, Linda. You were very good and I came away extremely motivated!" Denise Newberry, Cabin Press Studio

School & Library Visits
A full-day school visit usually includes 4 presentations and an autographing session. I typically give a slide presentation about being a writer, and the process of getting a book published--from the initial idea to the finished product--tailored to the age group. The presentation is very interactive, and I always leave time for questions. I can also do poetry workshops.

I do ask that schools order books through a bookseller before the event, and that you include time for autographing in the day's schedule (it can take a while!). Hosting an author requires a great deal of planning; please click on the links to the left for helpful information about school visits and download a sample agreement and book list.

Library visits vary, but normally include one presentation, tailored to the particular audience. One recent event included a "Story Safari" Summer Reading kick-off with a short slide show about the the writing and publication process. Another program featured a slide show, readings from Stella, Unleashed, and visits from the therapy dogs involved in the library's "Paws to Read" literacy program. I love to donate several autographed books to raffle off as part of the program.

Comments from school and library visits:

"We were so pleased to have Linda Ashman present her workshop for our 1st-6th grade Writer's Group. Her slide show was well-organized and kept the children's interest. Her writing exercise sparked their creativity, and she guided a lively, enthusiastic workshop session. The children truly enjoyed writing and sharing their poems." Ellen Mackey, Youth Librarian, Douglas County Libraries, Colorado

"Linda Ashman's school visit was memorable and remarkable for students and teachers alike. The author's warm smile, pleasant personality, and friendly demeanor created an immediate connection for the children. Her presentation creatively and effectively presented the entire writing process from ideas to published material. Teachers were pleased with the reinforcement of the writing process, especially revising! The author visit was fabulous on all accounts!"
Ann, Teacher Librarian, Boulder Valley School District, Colorado

"What a motivational speaker Linda is! The kids were excited to hear about how a book is crafted--from the rough draft, to the involvement of the illustrator, to how long the entire journey takes. The students learned that even published authors use the same formula that the kids are taught to follow in a creative writing situation. Our students were spellbound!" Joy Jones, Library Teacher, Vanderhoof Elementary School, Arvada, Colorado

"We enjoyed the program SO MUCH. Thank you for your time and putting together a wonderful presentation. Karin Martin, Englewood Public Library

"You were terrific at the program. The kids and adults loved the whole thing and especially that you are such a positive role model. There were about 200 people at your program and we were very impressed at how well you worked with this huge crowd of babies, preschoolers and elementary age children as well as adults. Thank you for visiting us and thank you for your great presentation!" Lesley Clayton, Manager of Children's Services, Mamie Doud Eisenhower Public Library

The kids (and I) LOVED your presentation! As a kindergarten teacher of new and very excited writers, the thing that's so great for them to hear is where great writers get their ideas. And how writers tap into their everyday life for ideas! You made those points very well! Mo Forster, Sierra Elementary, Arvada, Colorado

"Poetry rules and so do you and your books!"
Second-grader, Peak to Peak Charter School, Lafayette, Colorado