I have been visiting schools for many years, showing children how books are made. They get to hear about my childhood and how I grew up to become an artist. Then I take them through all the steps from idea to an actual printed, bound book. They get to see dummies, finished art, color proofs, and even photos of the printing presses. I read a book to them. The program concludes with me creating a large drawing right before their eyes using audience suggestions. I leave the picture for the children to use as a jumping-off point for writing their own stories.

I prefer smaller groups, no larger than two or three classes at a time. This allows every child to get a close look at all the materials and feel as though they have met a real live author personally. My program is geared to grades 1-4. However, I also do writing workshops with older children using family stories to create memoirs.

Necessary equipment includes a large pad of paper, an easel, and a good black marker. I also have a Power Point presentation if the technology is available in your building. It is easier for me to set up in the library or one place where I can remain for all the presentations. The children should be prepared for my visit by reading a few of my books. They might want to make a list of questions for me to answer.

When I visit I will be happy to autograph my books. You may order them from the following publishers:

Greenwillow Books (a division of HarperCollins)
1-800-242-7737 for:
THE LINE UP BOOK
THE BIG BROWN BOX
I DON’T WANT TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL
GOODBYE, CURTIS
HOUSE OF SPORTS

Atheneum
(A division of Simon & Schuster)
1-800-976-1726 for:
ALWAYS REMEMBER ME

Random House
1-800-733-3000
FAX: 1-888-204-0336 for:
THE BUNNIES ARE NOT IN THEIR BEDS

Harcourt
1-619-699-6534 for:
A PORTRAIT OF PIA

If you would like more information about my honorarium and possible availability, please contact me. There may be some additional travel fees depending on where your school is located.

Click here to view some of my past school visits!

What Schools Have Said About My Visits:

"Marisabina did an excellent job of explaining her work to very young children. She did it in a way that was fun and informative. She is wonderful with the children."

Lincoln-Titus Elementary School
Crompond, New York

"Ms. Russo's presentations greatly enhance our students understanding of the writing and illustration process. Children were left with a finished product that gave them a great sense of accomplishment."

Concord Road
Elementary School
Ardsley, New York

"Marisabina Russo is wonderful...She has a lovely way with the children and is sensitive to their questions and concerns."

Benjamin Franklin Elementary School
Shrub Oak, New York

All artwork © 1995-2008 Marsabina Russo. . All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate in any form without permission.