Maine author Lea Wait writes nineteenth century historical fiction for ages 8-12; her books (which have been honored by listings on student choice award lists in 13 states, the International Reading Association, Bank Street College, and the Smithsonian,) all have ties to New England. Lea also writes contempoary mysteries for adults, adopted four older Asian girls as a single parent, has a doctorate in American Civilization from New York University, and loves making American history relevant to
today's students through her books and author visits.
Selected Works:
FINEST KIND (Margaret K. McElderry Books)
SEAWARD BORN (Margaret K. McElderry Books & Aladdin)
WINTERING WELL (Margaret K. McElderry Books & Aladdin
STOPPING TO HOME (Margaret K. McElderry Books & Aladdin
no limitations to travel, but requires expenses to be paid. Can often do one-day visits to schools in Maine and New Hampshire without requiring an overnight.
Blurbs:
- brochure and references available on request. sample teacher comments:
"her presentation fit so well with our curriculum .. research, history, and editing .. It was excellent!" ""my kids are inspired and have been revising their essays because of Lea's presentation." "staff and students all loved Lea's visit and hope she vomes back next year."
Program Info
Program Descriptions:
Will adapt programs to fit school's needs.
Usual: Lea's journey to publication, how an idea becomes a book, why historical fiction is relevant today, how to do research, importance of editing; what an author's life is like. Lea loves to answer questions on any subject, and finds students who have read her books often want to talk about slavery, how those with disabilities coped in the 19th century, roles for women in the 19th century -- and so forth. She can also run mini-writing workshops for interested students -- and is available for author-in-residence programs.
Program Pricing:
$500 per full day (4 classroom presentations)
+ expenses
Special Features:
Will customize presentation for group. Brings to share with class: early 19th C school books; primary source materials for books; original manuscript for one of her books -- with editor's comments!
Audience Levels:
Upper Elementary; Middle School
Contact Info
Contact Email:
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Contact Address:
P.O. Box 225
Home City:
Edgecomb
Home State:
Maine
Contact Phone:
207-882-5569
Articles
Speakers may post articles related to their speaker programs and general tips for educators and librarians looking to hold successful author or illustrator programs.
All Speakers 