Bring Dashka to your school, library, or conference.
Conversations are my jam! I love speaking with readers and writers of all ages, from elementary through adult.
Formats Include
Keynotes, interactive presentations, fireside chats, writing workshops, and much more. I also offer professional development for educators as well as parent education sessions.
“[T]he absolute funniest, most expressive, and best costumed readaloud.”
— Romper Magazine
I want students to leave my presentations burning with curiosity about the world.
My presentations are designed to:
Inspire a love of writing, reading, and asking questions
Engage with the complexities of justice, accountability, and identity
Investigate contested topics like “truth,” “bias,” and “objectivity”
Invite deep and nuanced conversations about technology and social media
Demystify writing and the creative process
School & Library Visits
For middle and high school students, I offer interactive presentations, writing workshops, and student-led fireside chats. Elementary student presentations consist of several different modules that can be tailored to the audience: read-alouds, a hilarious group story-generating exercise, interactive presentations (using student volunteers) about the writing life, and more.
PARENT EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Presentations for middle and high school parents focus on the online lives of teenagers and how to help young people navigate the pitfalls of the digital world. Presentations for educators focus on restorative justice, responding to cyberbullying and online harm, and teaching controversial topics in a polarized environment.
Keynotes
Funny, moving, and inspiring, Dashka’s keynotes focus on justice, truth, curiosity, and the craft of writing for young readers.
More kind words
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“She was a pleasure to talk to and her workshop and presentations were phenomenal. Her message and insight resonated with students and they have asked me if we can have an author visit every year!”
– Jenna Morin, Oakmont Regional High School
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“I was so impressed and encouraged by your overall message. I am someone who wants to understand what lies below the surface of a headline and I appreciate your commitment to in-depth exploration. You managed to present information that can be uncomfortable to hear and process in a non-threatening way.”
– Elisa Sagardia, Campbell Hall Episcopal School
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“Numerous students, staff, and administrators reached out to me independently after the session and praised the meaningful and memorable interactions you had with our students.”
– David Griffith, Ridgefield High School
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“You have truly touched the hearts of our students (and librarians) and reinforced the love of reading.”
– Staci Vought Troy High School
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“Fabulous is the best way to describe this presentation!” It was a joy to watch the children’s faces! This was by far the best Reading Week assembly we’ve EVER had!”
- Laura Rude, Suburu Elementary
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“I had so much fun with you at the assembly! I want to be an author like you so much so I could write books like you.”
- Anisa, third grade, Lodi, CA