Paula J. Miller,
Author, Speaker, Writer
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. |
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 Rattlesnakes, lassos and learning to trust God. How much can one boy and his dog handle? Read more Children love stories of kids and their pets and Paula Miller shares one that is sure to win their hearts. Janette Oke I thoroughly enjoyed it! This book would make a wonderful addition to any home library. Kris' Eclectic Homeschool, homeschooling mother of two This story has a Little House on the Prairie feel to it, but with a faith thread. Edgy Inspirational Author It was refreshing to finally find a book that has a male protagonist as well as a truly entertaining storyline. The Old Schoolhouse This children's book has more than a fun story. Miller's message of faith in God is strong and woven in Nate's everyday life. Jandy's Reading Room The writing is wholesome and gentle, and those looking for a nourishing dose of old fashioned ideals will enjoy this simple telling of a boy and his dog. HomeschoolBuzz Nate's journey is interwoven with family values and spiritual truths. The language in One-Eyed Jack is beautiful, well fit for a family read aloud. Armchair Interviews Reviews I can see this being added to a history curriculum, making it fun and interesting. A Peek at my Bookshelf |
I have such fun visiting schools, libraries and homeschool groups all over southcentral Minnesota. On more than one occasion I've come home chucking over something a student has asked me or feeling a renewed sense of appreciation for all the hard work done by homeschooling parents, librarians and teachers for this next generation.
The rest of the page will give you an introduction to a typical visit. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Paula,
Thank you for the wonderful day of presentations! The students really enjoyed the day and my own daughter and son (who never reads) wanted a book! Principal, St. Mary of Mount Carmel School
A typical presentation is about 45 minutes long. Depending on your needs I can present once to a group of mixed grades or to each grade separately. In most schools I'm asked to speak to several classes from each grade. I'm fairly flexible so long as each group is no more than fifty students.
MACCRAY West Elementary
(Photo courtesy of the Clara City Herald)
Grades K-3
During a normal 45 minute presentation I talk with the students about what an author is, where my ideas come from and read an excerpt from my book. Because One-Eyed Jack takes place in the 1800's and our main character likes to hunt, I bring along several animal skins. The chapter I read aloud is about a rattlesnake in the school room, so I bring a rattlesnake (stuffed) and talk about their habits. I also leave time at the end of the presentation for Q&A's. Eagle Valley Elementary 
(Photo courtesy of The Long Prairie Leader)
Grades 4-6 (sometimes up to 8th)
These presentations are also about 45 minutes. With the older students I explain what an author really does (and it's not sitting in front of the computer at 3:00 p.m. in pajamas - though it's not a bad idea!)and the publishing process (with galley forms and artwork) while involving the students in a short writing workshop. In the workshop we create our own characters, give them a situation and learn how our characters react based on who we've created them to be. There will be a time for Q&A's at the end of the session.
Paula,
I appreciate the time you took with our fourth graders. I know your presentation helped spark enthusiasm for the writing process. 4th grade teacher, BOLD Elementary
Things I Will Need:
~ classroom or central location for each presentation. It is not difficult for me to move from class to class. For a central location I prefer a library or similar room as opposed to a gym where acoustics are more difficult to deal with.
~ table to display my books, skins, and rattlesnake. (Grades K-3)
~ dry erase board or chalkboard where students can easily see it. (Grades 4 and up)
List of Please DOS and DON'TS:
~ Please DO limit the number of children to 45-50 per group. I am perfectly fine with combining grades together (i.e. K-1, 2-3) as long as it stays within the limit. I find that too large of groups tend to give them the 'wiggles'.
~ Please DO have a teacher/librarian stay in the room as this helps calm the 'wiggles'.
~ Please DON’T ask me to do extra presentations unless we’ve agreed to it beforehand.
~ Please DO schedule a break of at least 5-10 min. for me between presentations.
~ Please DO e-mail or call me with a schedule before the visit.
~ Please DO feel free to 'share' me with other schools in your area. I’m happy to do a few
presentations at one school and another couple
presentations at a different school. You may also
consider 'inviting' another school to join you for the day. This can be a great way to cut down on costs.
~ Please DO read through the portfolio I will be sending you 2-3 weeks before my visit and share pertinent information with all the teachers whose classes I will be visiting. (Contents of portfolio are described below.)
Included in Portfolio:
~ posters to hang around your school/library
~ copy of a news release I will send the local newspaper
~ sample order form (As I visit each class, I will give the teachers the order form for each student to bring home. The students will have about two weeks to return the order form and payment to the school. Two weeks after my visit I will contact the school for the number of books ordered and will send them to the school. Each will be signed.)
Please contact me with questions or for scheduling and costs.
