Karen Autio - SchoolVisits

Karen welcomes the opportunity to talk about the writing process and to share her passion for researching history and writing historical fiction. She is available for author visits and readings for grades 4 and up.

A Teacher's Guide for SECOND WATCH is available. Teacher Guide Second Watch.doc

SECOND WATCH was shortlisted for the 2006-2007 BC Chocolate Lily Book Award

SECOND WATCH was selected for the CanLit for Kids Fall 2005-2006 Basic Book Package for school libraries and was highlighted as a CanLit for Kids 2005-2006 Novel Study.

Presentation includes:

- becoming a published author
- a brief reading from SECOND WATCH
- how SECOND WATCH came to be
- researching historical settings and events
- blocks and boosts to writing
- process of book cover design
- time for students to ask questions

Presentation Details:

This interactive presentation is designed for one or two classes, with a maximum of 65 students. It is 45-60 minutes in length and concludes with a draw for door prizes.

Equipment Required:

- a large table to hold presentation materials
- separate table and chair for book sales (if requested)
- photocopied class lists cut up and in a container for the draw

Contact Information:

Please email Karen directly to arrange for a school presentation. Thank you for your interest.

KarenAtLibrary

Preparing to present to students at Waverley Library in Thunder Bay.

Testimonials

"I liked that she actually gave up her own time to come and see us. She did an awesome job. I hope she comes again."
J.T., Grade 6

"On April 2, the intermediate students and staff of Ellison Elementary attended an hour long presentation by local author, Karen Autio. Ms. Autio wrote Second Watch, an historical fiction novel about the tragic 1914 sinking of the Empress of Ireland. During the presentation she spoke about what it takes to become a published author, how Second Watch came to be, researching historical settings and events and the process of book cover design.
Students were captivated by the selection she chose to read from her novel and were left with the strong desire not only to get their hands on a copy of Second Watch, but also to do their own research about this largely forgotten event."

Ellison Elementary School May 2007 Newsletter: Library News – Author Visit

"I love the history and how much detail you put into your book. It'll help me for when I write my own book and add the detail, history, and fiction like you had in your book!"
Sierra, Grade 6

“Every teacher in attendance at Karen Autio’s book talk on Second Watch had positive things to say following the event. They were most impressed by how it tied in with the curriculum (i.e. immigration, Canadian history), how she pulled children from the audience to help her demonstrate her points, her discussion of her own dreams during childhood about being a writer and an artist, and about the steps the book went through before publication (e.g. evolution of the cover). The children were so thrilled with the talk, boys and girls alike, that they couldn’t wait to get their hands on Karen’s book! I would highly recommend Karen Autio’s presentation to other schools!”

Eileen Holland, Teacher, Ranch Park Elementary

"I learned that it's good to ask others about your writing when you're writing a book or story."
Allison, Grade 6

“Thanks again for visiting us today! I spoke with many of the students today at recess and they told me they enjoyed your visit very much. They asked me when our next class was, obviously anxious to continue to read Second Watch. Thanks again for coming and for helping to promote the importance of school libraries.”

Sue Noble, Teacher-Librarian, Shannon Lake Elementary

"Thank you for coming!! I loved it when you got us going with reading some of the story!! THANK YOU!!"
Shyan, Grade 5

“Thanks so much for coming to speak to our students. Your presentation was fascinating and so relevant to what the children are learning in immigration. I know the students who have not yet read your book will be pushing to have it read to them or will read it themselves. I can’t wait for the sequel. Thanks again.”

Gabi Byers, Teacher-Librarian, Hudson Road Elementary

"You inspired me by the way you brought your first draft. I learned that you can't write a good book like Second Watch without doing research."
Jessi, Grade 5

More comments from students

Top