Author Visits

About the Author

Andrea believes in the power of literature. She taught Elementary Ed. for 34 years, and now has the privilege of writing books for children. While teaching, she strived to have a print-rich classroom which allowed children to recognize themselves in books, to be inspired by positive role models, and to study writing techniques of authors.

Andrea writes nonfiction, fiction, and dabbles in poetry. Most of her writing topics include Native elders, veterans, sports figures, artists (and others) who had precarious beginnings, overcame obstacles, and succeeded in life. She hopes that by highlighting these bright spots for young people, their stories will encourage young readers to grow self-confidence, develop their own unique talents, and give back to society.

She’s also fascinated with science and nature and can’t wait to share more of her work when it’s published.

In 2021-2023, Andrea was a featured presenter at SCBWI Regional events in Pennsylvania and Florida, as well as an instructor at the Highlights Foundation. She currently serves as a board member of the Children’s Literature Assembly (CLA) of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and consults on select projects for We Need Diverse Books (WNDB).

Andrea completed Kate Messner’s workshop titled REINVENTING AUTHOR VISITS in September, 2020.

About the Visit

Author visits (in-person and virtual) are available for schools, libraries, historical societies, college classes, rotaries, museum groups, etc. after May 2024.

Presentations include a 45-minute slide show, with 15 minutes of Q&A.

Venues, please provide a screen/projection TV and a projector. Other– Is wifi available? What type of flash drive is compatible? If virtual, what platform will be used?

"Andrea exceeded expectations- her Sioux Code Talkers presentation was fascinating and well organized, revealing secrets that could now be told. When speaking, she included everyone in the room--nearly 100 people. She welcomed questions and answered honestly. I recommend Andrea as a presenter."

"Sioux Code Talkers of World War II is an important book, especially for people in my area of the country."

"When I saw that Andrea was going to be presenting on her book at our public library, I jumped at the chance to go! I was keenly interested in learning more about the contributions made by our Native Americans using their language as code during the war. Needless to say, I was not disappointed! Andrea was very passionate about her work. That passion showed through in her presentation, in which I learned several “secrets.”

"I could tell that she poured her heart and soul into her work. Her book will be an outstanding resource about the contributions our local Native Americans made during the war. I can definitely say it was an honor to meet Andrea, and to attend the event!"

Author Visit Topic Information

Andrea hopes to engage with a broad audience of Native and non-Native communities, children, and adults in her author visits. (topics listed below)

Her book talk presentations are designed to help teachers/librarians select books that are a natural fit for students. Reading a wide variety of books supports academics, stimulate imaginations, engage critical thinking in readers.

Andrea would like to discuss the presentation details prior to setting a date. She will tailor the presentation to fit your needs in terms of timing, audience, goals, and technology18