20 Sep Catherine Zampier
Contact information: cath.zampier@gmail.com, 518-409-0095
Website: www.CatherineZampier.com
About the Author: Catherine Zampier, author of the picture book, ONE OF THIRTEEN, is inspired to write historical stories capturing events experienced growing up in the 1940s as in this local story involving a train, a shiny penny, and a soldier. Her goal is to spark conversations between generations to understand family connections better and explore their families’ heritage. (Questions provided with book). Catherine resides in the Albany, NY area with her husband and two dogs. She has worked in education for over 25 years and enjoys pickleball, traveling, and visiting her three sons. Besides writing picture books, she is working on a middle-grade chapter book involving the ONE OF THIRTEEN large immigrant family. She is a Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) member.
Book titles/intended audience: One of Thirteen (ages 4-10)
Presentations available for: Elementary School (grades PK-5)
Type of visit(s) available: In person
Visit details: I will read my book to all classes in the classroom or a library. I can customize presentations to the teachers’ requests. I can also provide compliment books for additional reading.
For K-2 grades: I explain the book-writing process with how the idea started, drafts, and sample illustrations that made it into the book. Students seem to be impressed with the “before” and “after”. I review elements of the book (authors, illustrators, title page, etc), explain some vocab related to the story, and ask their interest in writing a book. Provide coloring sheet activities. 45-60 mins.
For grades 2-4: I talk about immigration and family ancestry and heritage. I ask questions about families past and present, large vs. small families, 1940s vs. current day referring to the questions in the back of the book (which I sometimes provide as a give-away). I’ve found students love relating their family story to my book story. Always generates a lot of enthusiasm and interest. 60 mins preferred.
Read for RMHC discounted visit fee: Free within a 15-mile radius from Albany. If a school is outside the 15-mile radius, a travel fee is charged to cover traveling/gas expenses. (The current mileage rate for 2024 is 67 cents/mile)
Availability: I am available most school days and would travel within a 15-mile radius from Albany. Travel outside of the 15-mile radius of Albany would incur a travel charge.
Notice required for scheduling: One Week
Book order forms provided prior to visit? Yes, books will be delivered on the day of the school visit.
Book signing opportunity: Yes
To schedule a visit: Email – cath.zampier@gmail.com or call – 518-409-0095