Writing Conferences
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I am available for writing conferences, workshops, webinars, and pitch events. I am happy to create a presentation about any subject that would benefit creatives, however, below are workshops I have presented in the past. Invite me to speak
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Perfect Pitches
An immersive workshop focused on writing your "elevator" pitch, what catches an agent/editor's attention, perfecting in-person pitches, and follow-up questions an agent may ask during your pitch session.
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The Dreaded Synopsis
A comprehensive guide to writing a two-page synopsis. We will discuss proper format, what to include, why agents and editors ask for them, and how authors can utilize them in planning and plotting their books.
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Characters that B.A.R.F.
An informative and interactive workshop designed to help picture book authors create dynamic characters that leap off the page. We will discuss what librarians look for when choosing a book for storytime events and how to prepare for school visits.
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Should I Get an Agent?
An honest discussion on the pros and cons of working with a literary agent, what to expect from the agent/author relationship, and how to spot a bogus agent.
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I am available for library conferences, workshops, webinars, nd any other format used to aid in the continuing education of librarians. My easy-to-follow P.A.S.S. Approach is designed to help libraries create a welcoming environment for patrons who rely on Augmentative and Alternative Communication. I presented at the ALA Lib X Conference in New Orleans in January 2023. Invite me to speak
The P.A.S.S. Approach
A step-by-step guide assisting librarians in serving patrons who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices. This approach has been featured in a publication by the American Library Association and endorsed by speech pathologists and other parents of AAC users.
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Library Conferences
School Visits
Books that B.A.R.F. is an interactive writing workshop designed to spark creativity and improve writing skills in students. Schedule a visit
I am a published children's author and hold a Master of Library Science and BS in Public Health Education where I studied the art of creating and implementing educational programs. I have worked in both public and school libraries encouraging the love of books in readers of all ages.
Using my zany B.A.R.F. method students will create stories that have
- Believable characters
- Action
- Relatability
- Flow
FOR TEACHERS: Free B.A.R.F. poster download pdf
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"Jackie Kruzie gave my second grade students from Williams Elementary in Magnolia, Texas, such a fun and inspiring lesson on how to make books BARF. Her upbeat personality kept the students engaged, and the lesson really works! My students have books BARFing and they are loving it!" - Kari Stringer, Williams Elementary School
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"Jackie visited each of our school’s 3rd-5th grade classes, sharing a presentation about the writing process and her experience becoming a published author. The children found the presentation engaging and continued to refer back to her visit during their work in writing workshops throughout the year." - Jamie Martin, Vista Academy