Available for in-person visits: Quebec
Craft: Author
Genre: Picture Books, Beginning Readers, Early Chapter Books
Target Audience: Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6
Cost for School and Public Presentation: $250.00, plus applicable taxes
Biography
Mitali Banerjee Ruths grew up in Houston, Texas. And today, she lives in Montreal, Canada with her husband, three kids, and their dog, Tux. When Mitali was younger, she dreamed of becoming an astronaut. When she grew up, she worked as a babysitter, an ice cream seller, and even a medical doctor. Now, she's an author! Mitali is also an awkward dancer, an all-season knitter, and a devoted fan of locally-owned bakeries and ice cream shops. Mitali has written several children's books, with more coming out soon! She's the author of the award-winning picture book Archie Celebrates Diwali and of Scholastic Branches early reader series, The Party Diaries.
Presentation Information:
PRESENTATION 1:
A Magical Journey with Mitali Banerjee Ruths: Exploring Fun Stories (Grades 1-5)
I. Introduction
A. Greeting and welcoming the young audience with enthusiasm
B. Introducing the author as a friend who writes fun and exciting stories
II. What Are Stories?
A. Explaining that stories are like adventures in books
B. Using simple language to describe characters and adventures in stories
III. Meet the Characters
A. Introducing the characters from the author's books
B. Sharing fun facts about each character and what makes them special
IV. The Author's Magic
A. Sharing how the author comes up with amazing ideas for stories
B. Discussing the role of imagination and creativity in writing
C. Encouraging kids to use their imagination too
V. Storytime Adventure
A. Reading a short and engaging excerpt from one of the author's books
B. Asking simple questions to keep them engaged
VI. Let's Be Storytellers!
A. Teaching kids how to create their own simple stories
B. Providing fun prompts or ideas to start their storytelling adventure
C. Celebrating their creativity with a few volunteers sharing their stories
VII. Q&A with the Author
A. Inviting questions from the young audience about the books and storytelling
B. Answering questions in a simple and friendly way
C. Acknowledging their curiosity and imagination
VIII. The Fun Continues
A. Announcing any upcoming books or events for young readers
B. Encouraging kids to visit the library, read more books, and keep exploring stories
C. Thanking them for joining the magical storytelling journey
IX. Interactive Activity Time (optional)
A. Organizing a simple, age-appropriate craft or activity related to The Party Diaries
B. Allowing kids to get creative and have fun
C. Sharing the joy of hands-on storytelling
X. Conclusion and Photo Time
A. Summarizing the adventure and what they've learned
B. Inviting kids to take photos with the author or book characters
C. Sharing big smiles and waving goodbye
PRESENTATION 2:
Exploring the Magic of Stories: An Adventure with Mitali Banerjee Ruths (Grades 4-6)
I. Introduction
A. Greeting and welcoming the audience
B. Brief introduction and Mitali’s journey as a children's book writer
II. The Power of Stories
A. What is a story, and why are they important?
B. Discussing how stories can transport us to new worlds and experiences
C. Sharing personal anecdotes of how stories have impacted the author's life
III. Meet the Characters
A. Introducing the characters from The Party Diaries
B. Sharing character backgrounds and their unique qualities
C. Highlighting the importance of relatable characters in stories
IV. Behind the Scenes
A. Providing a sneak peek into the author's writing process and inspiration
B. Sharing how illustrations bring the stories to life
C. Mentioning any interesting facts or challenges faced during the book creation
V. The Adventure of Writing
A. Discussing the author's adventures in storytelling
B. Sharing how ideas are turned into books
C. Encouraging the audience to explore their own creative ideas
VI. Interactive Storytelling Activity
A. Engaging the audience in a fun storytelling activity or game
B. Encouraging participation and creativity
C. Showing how everyone can be a storyteller
VII. Q&A Session
A. Inviting questions from the audience about the author's books and writing
B. Providing insights into the world of children's book authorship
VIII. The Magic Continues
A. Announcing upcoming books or projects
B. Encouraging the audience to continue reading and exploring the author's work
C. Expressing gratitude to the audience for their support
IX. Conclusion
A. Summarizing the key takeaways from the presentation
B. Leaving the audience with an inspiring message about the joy of reading and storytelling C. Thanking the audience for joining the adventure
X. Book Signing and Meet & Greet (optional)
A. Offering the opportunity for the audience to meet the author, get books signed, and take photos
Book List
EARLY CHAPTER BOOKS
The Party Diaries #1: Awesome Orange Birthday (Scholastic Inc., 2023)
The Party Diaries #2: Starry Henna Night (Scholastic Inc., 2023)
The Party Diaries #3: Top Secret Anniversary (Scholastic Inc., 2023)
The Party Diaries #4: Fairy-Tale Puppy Picnic (Scholastic Inc., May 7, 2024)
BEGINNING READERS
The Inside Scouts #1: Help the Kind Lion (Scholastic Inc., February 6, 2024)
The Inside Scouts #2: Help the Brave Giraffe (Scholastic Inc., June 4, 2024)
PICTURE BOOKS
Archie Celebrates Diwali (Charlesbridge, 2021)
Archie Celebrates an Indian Wedding (Charlesbridge, 2024)