This presentation includes a reading from INTO THE WILD, as well as time for questions and answers and book signing. It is 45-60 minutes and is suitable for any size group. (Note: for larger groups, please allow extra time for book signing.)

Alternate Presentations

I am also happy to focus my talk around specific writing topics, such as:

• Creating Characters
• Point-of-View
• The Joy of Revising
• The Fantasy Genre

These talks include a brief joint writing exercise so please instruct your students to bring a sheet of paper and a pen/pencil.

Writing Workshops

Writing workshops are suitable for small groups who have either read my books or attended my presentation. Workshops consist of a discussion of a specific topic (such as how to develop characters), a writing activity (either solo or group) focused on the topic, and sharing of the results of the writing activity. Depending on the workshop length, they can include a reading from INTO THE WILD and/or OUT OF THE WILD and a question and answer period, as well as a book signing.

If you are interested in leading your own writing workshop, please view my free Lesson Plans.

Book Clubs

I would be happy to discuss INTO THE WILD and/or OUT OF THE WILD with your book club. If an in-person visit isn't possible, I am willing to participate via phone.

Conferences, Conventions, Etc.

I frequently appear on panels and do readings at conferences and conventions. If you are interested in having me be a program participant, please contact me at sarah@sarahbethdurst.com with the dates and location of your event. It is helpful if you also include a website with further information about your organization or event.

Honorarium

Fees vary depending on location, duration, and audience. I also typically ask for travel expenses in addition to the honorarium.

To Arrange a Visit

If you are interested in arranging a visit, please email me at sarah@sarahbethdurst.com and let me know what you are looking for and the prospective dates you have in mind. I will get back to you as quickly as possible with availability, fees, and book ordering information.

When selecting dates, I recommend looking at my Appearances schedule to see if I already have plans to be in your area. Also, if the event is a full day, I would appreciate it if you would plan to arrange for lunch.

Books for the event can be ordered directly from Penguin Group (USA) Inc. at a 40% discount. Orders should be placed 6-8 weeks in advance of the event. Local bookstores are also often happy to work with you to arrange book sales before and at the event.

I look forward to hearing from you and (hopefully) meeting you!

Testimonials

"Sarah Beth Durst did a wonderful job with the kids, never losing the positive message about her book, and about kids' potential. Besides writing, she has a real talent for connecting with kids!" - Patricia Montimurro, Principal, Robert E. Melican Middle School, Northboro, MA

"Sarah Beth Durst captivated students and teachers alike with her presentation about the creation of Into the Wild. In a thoroughly engaging and interactive way, she spoke about the writing process, from the bubble of an initial idea to the exhilaration of seeing her book in print. Students were in awe of Sarah's description of the revision process (Sarah's favorite part), hardly believing that from first draft to final manuscript involved thirty versions!! Sarah's school visits were a resounding success; she is both charming and professional—a dream to work with, like a fairy tale come true." - Nancy Riemer Kellner, Library Teacher, Peaslee Elementary School, Northboro, MA

"Sarah Beth's visit to Zeh was a great day for our 4th & 5th graders. They found Sarah Beth extremely friendly and approachable and they stated she was very easy to understand. They can hardly wait until June when "Out of the Wild", the sequel to "Into the Wild", arrives in the bookstores." - MaryEllen Remillard, Library Teacher, Zeh Elementary School, Northboro, MA

"The children fell in love with Ms. Durst from the moment she spoke to them, and they were hooked until it was time for her to go. She addressed them in a very gentle but 'in control' matter and her love for reading and writing shined through." -- Caroyln Berfas, fifth-grade teacher, Village School, Syosset, NY (Read full letter of recommendation)

"Our guest speaker, Sarah Beth Durst, was delightful -- not only did she manage to capture the imagination of the audience, but she also threw in practical tips for aspiring writers... Her delightful presentation had many in the audience shaking their heads in agreement and at other times flat out laughing." -- Science Fiction Society of Northern New Jersey (Read full event report)

Click here for printable information about Sarah Beth Durst and INTO THE WILD (PDF)