Join Kwame and iconic children’s book author Mo Willems to learn about developing strong characters with words and illustrations.

Students will hear Kwame read from one of his children's books, then learn a strategy for creating strong characters in a brief writing lesson. They’ll learn from Kwame and Mo in a conversation about Mo’s approach to character as an author, illustrator, animator and playwright. The 45-minute virtual author visit ends with a live Q&A session, in which Kwame answers questions from children in the chat.

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Imagine what students can learn about the power of revision from three prolific and acclaimed authors in a virtual author visit!

First, students hear Kwame will read from one of his recent books, highlighting how his own revision process makes his work shine. Then Kwame will teach a brief writing craft lesson focused on revising and editing. Next, students will learn from a conversation between Kwame, Tracey, and Caroline about how revising and editing differ, and about these magical authors’ tricks and tips to the revision process. Our 45-minute virtual author visit concludes with a live Q&A, where students get to ask Kwame whatever is on their minds.

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Learn how Author Study supports student learning goals.

Kwame and friend/fellow author Olivia Cole will sit down together at The Open Word Bookstore to discuss their new books - Kwame's Black Star and Olivia's The Empty Place.

Come learn about the compelling stories at the center of these books and hear Kwame and Olivia discuss their lives as writers and share engaging and inspiring stories with the audience. A book signing will follow.

This event is free and open to the public, but purchase of at least one of their books is required for the signing line.

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It’s National Poetry Month! Let these three superstar poets show students how poetry can be a starting point for other forms of writing.

Kwame will demonstrate the magic of poetry by reading to students from his award-winning classic, The Crossover. In a brief craft lesson taught by Kwame, students will learn how poetry can be a jump-off point for other writing. Then, students will learn from Jasmine, Alicia, and Kwame in conversation about their poetry and the importance of making our writing public by publishing or performing it. This one-of-a-kind virtual author visit ends with a live Q&A session.

Register HERE!

Learn how Author Study supports student learning goals.