On the Trail of History

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A program for children grades 3-8
by Ann Bausum

What is it like to be an author? How is writing nonfiction different from writing fiction? What goes on behind-the-scenes in order to make a finished book?

Children gain an insider's look at the process of making a history book from the perspective of the book author. I talk about how I became an author, where I get my ideas, and how I do my research. Children learn about the personal connection I bring to my topics, the hundreds of hours of research that take place before I write a single word of a book, and how I go about finding the historical photographs that illustrate my works.

I use personal stories about the creation of each of my books, including works in progress, to help students understand my life as an author. The program concludes with some basic advice for budding writers (including a pitch for spelling practice) and the opportunity for children to ask questions about my books and the process of writing. Each presentation is targeted to best serve the grade level of the audience.

Length: 30-40 minutes for program, 10-15 minutes for questions

Technical requirements: LCD projector and projection screen