Earlier this year, I visited Independence Elementary. I love school visits so much - I love to talk, and I love to talk to kids! They are bright eyed, funny, curious, ambitious, talented, and hopeful. The students at Independence were no different.

My presentation started after a beautiful introduction by a student. My presentations typically include information about me and what I like, my writing process and journey thus far, and the inspiration behind each of my books. After the presentation, we opened the floor for a Q&A where the students asked so many great questions about my work.

After this, I visited some English classes to offer feedback on some students’ short stories and essays. Let me tell you - these kids are talented! I talked to a few that already want to be authors and illustrators one day, and I have no doubt in my mind that they will be.

I visited more classrooms, where the students had the chance to ask more questions in a more conversational setting. I laughed out loud at a few of these, and some students wanted me to elaborate more on my presentation from the morning.

I remember one girl asking if my writing process had changed between going from 1-2 toddlers, and how did I balance being both a mom and author? She asked was it hard and has it affected my writing? The measured way she asked the question made me slow down and think a bit deeper myself. At 33 years old, I still remember talking to authors in the fifth grade and I still have the books they signed. In the fifth grade, I’d already known I wanted to be an author and mom one day, so if I’d had asked this question, I know I would still remember the answer. I didn’t know if these were her dreams, but if either or both were, I wanted to give a truthful and inspiring answer. I’ll cover that in another newsletter coming soon!

I took photos with the classes and was escorted to the media center where there was a book signing and lunch with select students.

Throughout the day, I was escorted to each classroom by a different, vivacious student. I learned about their interests and their favorite classes. They were confident and bubbly. I had such a great time chatting with them.

After the signing, I ate lunch with the students. I bounced around different tables to eat with them and talk about books we’ve read and want to read. We even gave each other recommendations.

This was a fun school visit with so many and components and opportunities to talk with my main audience - children! Independence students showed an eagerness to learn, converse, and have fun. I am always grateful and honored to be considered for a school visit. Thank you so much for having me, Independence Elementary!

Thanks for reading India’s Notebook! This post is public so feel free to share it.

If you would like me to visit your school or event, please email by booking agent at [email protected].