Audrey Osofsky - Author

Contact Information

Address:

Aitkin, MN 56431

Book Category: Nonfiction,Picture Books

Books

Free to Dream: The Making Of a Poet, Langston Hughes. Lothrop, 1996.

My Buddy. Illus. by Ted Rand. Holt, 1992.

Dreamcatcher. Illus. by Ed Young. Orchard, 1992.

Highlights

As a former fifth grade and music teacher, I enjoy connecting with children of all ages, to help "bring out their dreams." I've also had a unique working relationship with my illustrators so I share insights into both the art and the writing process of picture books.

Awards

Free to Dream: The Making Of a Poet, Langston Hughes. ALA Quick Picks. NCTE Notable Book. NY Public Library Best Book. Children's Study Books of the Year. School Librarians International Book Award.
Dreamcatcher. MN Book Award, Book for Younger Children, 1993. Notable Children's Trade Books in Social Studies, 1992.

Presentations

K-6: Depending on the age group, my presentation may include slides, music, drama, and a video interview of the boy and dog in My Buddy. I emphasize that "I'm a writer because I was a reader" and I encourage children to write about their own experiences -- what they care about. My slides show the magazine I wrote as a child, where I get ideas, research, my writing process, working with my illustrators, and children's work inspired by my books. I also do creative writing workshops for smaller groups. Junior and Senior High Schools: with slides and music, I dramatize the life and poetry of the Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes, emphasizing his formative years: "Hold Fast to Your Dreams." Teacher and Librarian Conferences and Workshops: As a motivational speaker, I include slides of my creative process, research, working with illustrators, and ideas to stimulate children's imagination: "To Bring Out the Dreams."

Fees

Negotiable, depending on type of presentation.

Added: 1/11/2001

Updated: 2006/07/18:0