Inspire a Love for Reading and Writing in Your Students
Bring the magic of storytelling to your classroom with engaging author visits by Monica Sherwood.
Author visits provide a unique experience that connects young readers directly with the world of books and storytelling.
Monica Sherwood offers dynamic presentations that encourage students to explore their own narratives and embrace the joy of reading and writing.
About
Monica Sherwood is a children's book author and illustrator based in Brooklyn. With a master's degree in Childhood and Special Education from Hunter College and experience as a former special education teacher in NYC schools, Monica specializes in creating interactive workshops tailored to meet the social and emotional learning needs of students.
Her debut middle-grade novel, The Ice House, has resonated with readers for its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters.
What to Expect
Monica's author visits are designed to be interactive and adaptable to various age groups and learning environments.
Each session includes:
Engaging Presentations: Insights into the writing process, character development, and the journey of publishing a book.
Interactive Workshops: Activities that encourage students to develop their own stories and express creativity.
Q&A Sessions: Opportunities for students to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of storytelling.
Sessions can be customized to align with your curriculum goals and the specific interests of your students.
Program Offerings
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Grade Level: 3–8
Format: Presentation + Q&A
Length: 30-45 minutesTake students behind the scenes of The Ice House—from the spark of the idea, through messy drafts, revisions, and working with an editor, to seeing your book on a shelf. You’ll show real artifacts (notes, outlines, annotated pages) and talk about how real writers handle fear, mistakes, and rewriting. This is a great high-energy session to inspire both readers and budding writers.
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Grade Level: 3–8
Format: Hands-on workshop
Length: 30-45 minutesThis interactive workshop invites students to tap into their own voice and start a short story, memoir scene, or fictional moment based on their experiences. Includes group brainstorming, character-building prompts, and time to write. Ends with tips for revision and optional sharing.
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Audience: Classes who have read or are reading The Ice House
Format: Discussion + Author Q&A
Length: 30–45 minutesPerfect for classrooms or book groups reading The Ice House. You’ll lead a guided discussion on the book’s themes—identity, friendship, and courage—followed by a relaxed Q&A where students can ask anything about the book or writing life.
“I wanted to thank you for the wonderful virtual author visit. Your presentation was truly inspiring and resonated with our middle school students, igniting their passion for reading and writing.
We are grateful for your time and for sharing your craft and experiences with our students.”
— M. Davis, Information Specialist, Mid-Atlantic District
“Thank you for a wonderful author visit! The kids were buzzing after and wanted to start writing right away!! This will be such a special memory for them!”
— Mary L., Elementary School Teacher, Ohio
Booking Information
To schedule an author visit with Monica:
Contact: Click this link or send an email here
Availability: Virtual and in-person sessions are available for students from Pre-K to Grade 12.
Preparation: Monica will work with you to tailor the visit to your classroom's needs and provide any necessary materials in advance.
FAQs
How long is an author visit?
Sessions typically last between 30 to 45 minutes but can be adjusted based on your schedule.
Are there any materials we need to prepare beforehand?
Monica will provide any necessary materials prior to the visit. It's beneficial if students are familiar with her work, but not required.
What are the technical requirements for a virtual visit?
A stable internet connection, a projector or smart board, and a platform for video conferencing (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet) are recommended.
I have some concerns about hosting an author visit specific to my class/students.
Feel free to send Monica an email asking about any specifics. Keep in mind Monica has years of experience as a special education teacher and is prepared to adapt her visit to best fit the needs of her audience.
Resources
For more insights on the impact of author visits, explore these articles: