School Visits

THE DAY

My programs bring together science and nonfiction writing using my award-winning books as launching pads. A visit includes up to five presentations, typically an assembly and four nonfiction writing workshops. Students will:

  • Discover fascinating animals, plants and places in their own backyards.
  • Learn secrets of great writing.
  • Write their own science-based stories using research and their imaginations.
  • Celebrate what they have created.

SAMPLE PRESENTATIONS

Dive In! A fun, interactive assembly that combines a mini science lesson in ecology or adaptation with “secrets” for writing a nonfiction book, from inspiration to (LOTS of) revision. (Grades K-8, 45 minutes)

Writing Exciting Nonfiction I guide students in writing lively nonfiction about the places, animals and plants around us, inspired by The Secret Pool and The Secret Bay. (Grades K-8, 50 minutes).

Secrets of ACE Science Reporting. Students will learn ways to tell science “facts from fakes,” hook their readers, and write compelling nonfiction in this workshop inspired by Extreme Survivors, Animals That Time Forgot, a best STEM Book of 2017, Bank Street College of Education. (Grades 4-8, 55 minutes).

I also teach nature writing, and co-present programs with artist Rebekah Raye, who illustrated The Secret Pool and The Secret Bay. Contact me for information.

Secret Pool writing workshop

TESTIMONIALS

“Kim has a wonderful way of breaking down the writing process that helped even the most reluctant writers find their voices.” 

Jamie Reid, Librarian, Ellsworth Elementary School

“Students immediately sense Kim’s passion for writing and nature, and her sincere interest in them as people and as learners. She…gives them a memorable and potentially transformational experience…” Jan Coates, Executive Director, Island Readers & Writers

What a fantastic day! Our students are still talking about it! From the fun, interactive opening assembly to the individual writing experiences, Kim communicated her love of science and nature in a wonderfully engaging way, drawing in even the most reluctant writers. Before they knew it, they were successful and wanted to share with their classmates. Kim has a gift for connecting with her young readers. This was our school’s second visit with Kim, and we can’t wait to spend the day with her again! –Rachel Driscoll, Title 1 Coordinator, Acton Elementary School

“I loved the writing. You gave us good ideas for our stories. I had so much fun. I hope we can do it again.”–Xander, Ashley Bryan School, Islesford, Maine

Download School Visit Flyer

Download a brochure for your school!

Honorarium

Maine Schools: $800 per day*

Outside Maine: $950 per day*

Discounts for multi-day visits & neighboring school districts scheduled the same week

*travel and expenses beyond a one-hour drive from Brooklin, ME. Contact Kim for info.

BOOKS

Kim is a two-time winner of the John Burroughs Association’s Riverby Award for “outstanding natural history books for young people.” Her books include:

The Secret Pool, a picture book about vernal pools

“Share with budding naturalists or use as an excellent guide for a woodland walk...”

--Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Lupine Award, Maine Library Association   


The Secret Bay, a picture book about estuaries

“A treasure-trove of kid-friendly natural history.” Stephen R. Swinburne, author.

Moonbeam Award.


Extreme Survivors: Animals That Time Forgot

The Best STEM Book of the Year, 2017, Bank Street College of Education


Reviews & Awards for The Secret Pool

"Share with budding naturalists or use as an excellent guide for a woodland walk..."  --Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

  • Lupine Award, Maine Library Association, 2013
  • Riverby Award for Outstanding Natural History Books for Young People, John Burroughs Association, 2013
  • Skipping Stones Honor Award, 2014
  • CCBC Choices, Best Children's Books, 2014
  • Reading is Fundamental STEAM Collection, 2014
  • Best Children's Books, Downeast Magazine, 2014
  • Finalist, Maine Literary Awards, 2014

CONTACT

www.kimberlyridley.org

kimridley@myfairpoint.net

207-359-8884

Watch the trailer for The Secret Pool