Sonja Dunn

Readings

Using rhymes, raps, changes and songs from my books, as a springboard, I encourage the children to participate in an interactive learning experience. The focus is on exploring language in rhythm and rhyme in a playful way. I often use the “call and response” or “echo” technique to engage the children, and accompany my songs on a guitar. I wear a story skirt where I keep books in the pockets. My aims are to inspire the children to want to express themselves and to see the myriad possibilities of using language creatively, as well as motivating them to read. Topics in my books deal with everyday happenings in the lives of children – the magic of friendship, fears, holidays, food, exotic places, math, space travel, geography, and the telling of old tales in rhythmical sound poems. These techniques extend areas of leaving in a dynamic and enjoyable manner. Question and answer period at the end or during the session.

To put it simply:

I sing a song
Do a dance
Lead the children
In some chants!

Special Equipment:

A chair and small table.

Book Sales:

Copies of books can be brought to be sold and autographed, if requested.

Biography

Sonja Dunn is the creator of 10 books of poetry for children and also writes for the mainstream adult audience. A former educator and drama consultant, she has travelled internationally performing her work in schools, libraries, on television, and at major conferences. A former television writer, producer, performer and host, she promotes the arts with the focus on language and reading. Her television show “Sonja Dunn and Company” originated with CBC and CTV in Sudbury, Ontario and continued with Rogers in Toronto. She has taught drama in education at universities and for various school boards.

Her rhymes, raps, chants and songs are familiar to many elementary children and their teachers. She travels the world with her guitar, story skirt and hat and continues to write.

OTHER PRESENTATIONS:
Sonja Dun is available for keynote addresses and professional development day sessions for teacher and librarians. Please contact her for details.