Speaking Topics
&
Workshops
I'm a former elementary school teacher (3rd & 5th grade). I'm also the leader of a writing group in my state. Speaking to and interacting with groups - both kids and adults - is always a pleasure - especially when the topic is books and writing. I would be delighted to speak to your group. If you have a specific topic in mind that is not listed here, contact me and I'll let you know if it's in my wheelhouse.
Where I've Presented:
1
FREE Book Club Visits for Kids & Adults
If your book club reads my book, I would love to talk to your group for FREE via Zoom, or in person if you're in Tulsa County.
I will answer questions and talk about my writing process, inspiration, setbacks (there are always setbacks), and all the writerly things.
For students, we can focus the discussion on the academic standards you are working on the classroom.
2
Using Historical Photos to Jumpstart Writing (Primary Documents) - for Kids in 4th-6th grade
A Story Unwritten is fiction that takes place in 1920s Oklahoma. We'll talk about the difference between primary & secondary sources before analyzing primary sources (historical photos) to see what they tell us. We will use the photos to inspire stories. We'll talk about the importance of strong opening paragraphs, description, and the writing process. Students will have time to apply what they learn through writing. This program can be tweaked to focus on the academic standards that you are working on in the classroom.
3
What’s a BISAC and Will it Bite? Decoding Publishing Jargon & Acronyms - For Adults
BISAC, ISBN, LCCN, CIP Block, Key Words, Comps, etc. Jennifer Sneed will identify these, tell you their purpose, and why they are important. Learning about the seemingly trivial bits of book publishing will be of interest to traditionally published authors, but it is essential for authors choosing hybrid publishing, self-publishing, or those working with very small traditional presses.
"You took a kind of boring subject and made it pretty darn fascinating." Kara Mitchell
4
What a Character! Writing Compelling Characters Workshop - For Adults
An intricate plot and fascinating world won’t hold a reader’s attention if they don’t care about the people, so what makes a character come alive on the page? We’ll discuss backstory, taking your character beyond archetypes, the importance of making your characters suffer & grow, and more. We’ll complete writing exercises to develop your ideas. Ideal for novice and experienced writers, this writing workshop is a collaborative and fun exercise in creating multidimensional characters that readers will care about.
Other Topics:
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Plot a Novel in Less Than an Hour: a Writing Workshop
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Self-Publishing: Setting Yourself Up for Success
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Determining Who Your Book-Buying Audience Is (for publishing success)
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The ABCs of Writing for Children: from Board Book to YA
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Canva for Writers: Tips & Tricks
