Anna Kerz

Readings

Storytelling Sets:
(for Kindergarten - Grade 12, plus adults)
My storytelling sets include folk, fairy tales, myths and legends from around the world. Each set can be adapted in theme or program length to meet the needs of the audience and the classroom.

Author Readings:
(for Grades 3 - 8)
As an author, I use my storytelling skills to demonstrate how my life experiences reappear in my writing, allowing listeners to see how they can incorporate the events in their own lives to develop their stories.

Book Sales:

Anna can bring copies of her books to the readings for students to purchase and have autographed.

Workshops

Storytelling:
(for Grades 4 - 12, plus adults)
Using the StoryJam program I work with students to help them develop the oral language and presentation skills needed to tell a story on their own. This program comes with evaluation forms and a package of classroom-tested stories suitable for first-time tellers.

Writing:
(for Grades 4 - 8)
Hands-on activities that involve brain storming, role playing, writing exercises, readings and storytelling.

Book Sales:

Anna can bring copies of her books to the readings for students to purchase and have autographed.

Biography

I came to Canada in 1954 as an immigrant child from Austria, so I understand very clearly how difficult it is to learn a new language and adjust to a new lifestyle. Many of the lessons I learned during my early years were a great help when I grew up and became a classroom teacher. For thirty years, I taught children of all ages. During those years I came to realize how powerful a tool storytelling can be for communication and as a stepping stone to literacy. It seemed only natural to continue in that work once I retired.

My storytelling experiences gave me the courage to begin writing my own tales and from there I moved on to write novels. When you read them, you’ll notice that each one has at least one character who tells stories that help others understand and overcome some difficulty in life.