My presentations are set up in a flexible format and depend on the needs and interests of the school, library or organization for whom I am presenting. I am available for virtual visits via Zoom.

Because a number of my books are based on my travels in Africa and Haiti, I can speak about these cultures and my adventures in these countries as they relate to my books. I can show slides that relate to my books and my presentations include anecdotes about my books, writing in general and my experiences abroad.

Presentations generally take between 30 and 45 minutes depending on the age level of the audience and can be tailored for all grade levels—kindergarten through high school. My books are most suitable for elementary school and middle school aged children. I can design a program for small groups as well as for full school assemblies. I include a question and answer period and am happy to autograph books. I also do writing workshops for small groups of up to 30 students.

Arrange a Virtual Visit

Karen William’s presentation at City of Asylum Pittsburgh completely captivated her audience, young and old alike. As we listened to Karen’s stories we felt connected to a small village in Africa where Kondi (the main character in her book Galimoto) sought wire to create his own toy vehicle. The book was the perfect springboard for our activity – making toy vehicles of recycled materials. Karen engaged us with tales of how she discovered other book ideas; collaborating with Khanda Mohammed to tell two refugees girl’s stories in Four Feet,Two Sandals and an egg-laying chicken on a tap tap (bus) in Haiti.  “The best storytelling event yet,” said one attendee, and I couldn’t agree more!

—Jen Kraar, Bookseller / Children’s Book Buyer

“I really liked the program. Especially the Galimotos. The story tells how the children gather supplies to make the toys they play with. I might try making a galimoto myself if I can. They are really cool with the way the legs on the people worked on the bicycles and other galimotos. I like seeing the people’s pictures that the author met when she was there.”

—Elementary school student, Pittsburgh, PA

“The students in my class soaked up Karen’s advice about “showing, not telling”, great first sentences, and the importance of keeping a writer’s notebook. The students were mesmerized by her visit. One student became so attached to his writer’s notebook that he carried it with great pride everywhere he went.”

—Elementary school teacher

“Karen Williams took her world experience and demonstrated to the students that good writers have to write from what they know. The students thought deeply about their own experience in creating stories. Whether it was the tale of a boys experience with his football friends or another’s deep involvement with early American reenactments, their stories reflected the information Karen shared.”

—Elementary school teacher

Discussion Topics

  • How, when and why I became a writer.
  • My life as a writer.
  • How to write a book— from idea to completion.
  • Let’s work together on a presentation for your audience.

What I Offer

I present at schools, libraries, and venues around the world.  Writing workshops for all ages, slides and power point presentations. Sample manuscripts and books in progress. My collection of galimotos and other artifacts from Africa and Haiti and the Navajo reservation that relate to my books.

I tell stories to engage the audience and use them as examples of what inspired me to become a writer.  The Bear in the Bottom of the Bed is a popular example.

What I Require

When asked to project digital photos, I will need a computer with Powerpoint and a projection system connected to it. In addition, 2 large tables or equivalent space for display, and a microphone for large groups are necessary.

Considerations

Shorter programs in the evening or for special events are negotiable. I am happy to split a day between schools or to schedule several appearances in an area to help defray the costs.

Books for autographing can be purchased from the publishers for up to 40% discount. Selling these books to students for full or discounted cost can be a fundraiser to help pay for the fees of the author.

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