School presentations focus on Pamela’s chapter books, developing STEM connections and the writing process. Half-day and full-day rates are available and a variety of presentations can be selected. Virtual author visits are also possible. A detailed summary is available here.
Cougar Frenzy: Facts vs. frenzy
Grades 1 - 4
Cougars are shy and secretive – and seldom seen. Learn cool facts about this amazing animal, including how a late-night visitor to Waterton inspired the book Cougar Frenzy. This presentation includes stunning visuals and examines how scientists study cougars in the wild using GPS technology. Are there ways humans and cougars can safely coexist? Discussions of life cycles and environmental stewardship provide opportunities for further connections in the classroom. The session concludes with a reading from Cougar Frenzy.
Length: 30 – 45 minutes
Books: Cougar Frenzy
Bats in Trouble: A real-life scientific puzzle
Grades 1 - 4
Bats may be tiny, but they are ecological superheroes! This presentation will inspire young readers to watch for nocturnal creatures, including bats, in their own backyards. The focus is on the unique features of bats and the conflict between bats and wind turbines, which inspired this story. How can we balance species conservation and energy development? And why should we? The session concludes with a reading from Bats in Trouble and some origami, if time permits.
Length: 30 – 45 minutes
Salamander Rescue: A story inspired by nature
Grades 1 - 4
Salamanders are cool! Amazing facts and photos will grab young readers’ attention and light their curiosity for the natural world around them. Focus is on the unique life cycle of amphibians and physical features specific to long-toed salamanders – including how Waterton’s population of long-toed salamanders inspired this story. This presentation can be a springboard for story writing, research projects, and great discussions about environmental stewardship. The session concludes with a reading from Salamander Rescue.
Length: 30 – 45 minutes
Book: Salamander Rescue
Ospreys in Danger: Is it a bird? What is an osprey anyway?
Grades 1 - 4
Ospreys are skilled fishers, devoted parents, and distant travellers. This presentation focusses on the amazing features of this species, its life cycle, migration, and the physical characteristics that make it unique. Striking visuals enhance this presentation, including video clips from web cams in osprey nests all over the world. Cross curricular links are made between Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science, and the session concludes with a reading from Ospreys in Danger.
Length: 30 – 45 minutes
Book: Ospreys in Danger
Focus on Fiction - Based on Fact
Grades 4 - 6
The stories in Pamela’s fiction series were inspired by actual events that occurred in Waterton Lakes National Park. This presentation will explore getting a story started using the writer’s mantra: what if? Once an idea is sparked, how does the writer develop it and publish it as an illustrated book? Examples of manuscript drafts and rough sketches will demonstrate the work involved and career opportunities in the publishing industry.
Length: 45 minutes
Book: Ospreys in Danger, Cougar Frenzy
Animals, Animals
Kindergarten – Grade One
This presentation introduces the writing process and how a non-fiction book is created. Science curriculum correlations are developed, specifically how living things meet their needs to survive through food, habitat, physical features, etc. The relationship between print and pictures provides excellent enrichment for early literacy programs.
Length: 30 – 45 minutes
Books: Animals in My Backyard series: Wolves, Black Bears, Bald Eagles, Rabbits
