Susan Ross

Readings

Presentations involve:

• reading the story
• how I came up with the storyline
• how one writes, illustrates, publishes and markets a book geared to the children’s age (includes samples of the illustrator’s original paintings and sketches)
• reading a manuscript and having the children help in its editing (optional, time permitting)

Presentations are 30-45 minutes depending on the number of presentations required and the grade level (see Fees for more information.)

Special Equipment:

PowerPoint if available

Book Sales:

Copies of books can be brought to be sold and autographed.

Biography

I grew up in Toronto, Ontario. Shortly after I married my husband, Nathan, we moved to London, Ontario. Nathan and I live with Abby, Lucy, Moses, and Petrie. Abby is a teeny, tiny dog. Lucy is a Dutch rabbit. Moses is a grey tabby cat. Petrie is a VERY loud little parrot. When I write on the computer, Abby is usually in my lap and Petrie is on my shoulder. I have a married daughter named Rachel.

I went to university and got a degree in psychology. Then I went to the Toronto Teacher’s College and got a teaching degree. I substitute taught until I had my daughter, Rachel.

I started telling stories and creating crafts for places like Fanshawe Pioneer Village, The London International Children’s Festival and the Western Fair; places I took my young daughter to on a regular basis. I began substitute teaching again and also spent a year teaching an ESL pre-school. I loved telling stories and doing crafts with children.

One day, at a storytelling event, a woman approached me and said I should write my stories down so I would be able to read them to my grandchildren. [But I don't have any grandchildren... yet. (Please read that in a very whiny voice.)] So I started writing my favourite stories down, however I didn’t get serious until after seeing the movie, The Bucket List. After seeing that movie, I decided I REALLY wanted my favourite stories made into books, so I worked long and hard and now I’m a children’s author with three published books, one in the works, one in the wings and I’m a performer.

I love what I do! I get to do all my favourite things. I’m creative when I’m writing stories and collaborating (working with) the artist. I’m involved in arts and crafts since I design a craft for each book and make craft kits to sell with the books. I get to teach when I give presentations in schools across Ontario. I am a very lucky lady!