Elsa Marston
children's author

I love to meet young people and to look for ways we can connect. I hope my books and stories will entertain young readers, open their eyes to "something new," and maybe help them understand both themselves and the world a little better. If I can also help them have an idea of what goes into the creation of a book--not just "how you get it published," but the patience and determination needed--that's great!

Since I write for all ages except the very young, I can give presentations from first grade through high school, as well as talks and instructional workshops about writing, for adults. Wherever possible, I tailor my topics to fit curriculum or other special interests. For instance, I can speak on many topics about ancient Egypt, a perennial favorite with kids; and for social studies units about the Middle East or gender studies, I can discuss the status of women in the Arab/​Muslim world. Another subject I like to talk about is American archaeology--such as the Moundbuilders, Mesa Verde, and southwestern rock art.

I have spoken to schools and libraries in several states--Indiana, Massachusetts, California, Minnesota, Illinois, Texas, Iowa, Louisiana, Rhode Island--and overseas: Germany, Tunisia, Egypt, Lebanon, and Palestine.

Interested in a possible visit to your school or library? I am now represented by Jean Dayton of Dayton Bookings. Contact information (also on the Links page) is: www.daytonbookings.com, phone 812-824-5017.

My new publicist is Kirsten Cappy, who is imaginative and experienced in promoting multicultural literature, including books about the Middle East. Her website is www.curiouscity.net, and she can be reached at kirsten@​curiouscity.net, or 207-699-2755.

What's it like to be a writer?
--How I got started, and why I write for children
--Where my ideas come from
--Highlights and low points

Hatching a Plot (can be done interactively)
--What makes a story sparkle
--Targets and pitfalls
--How to get it right the first time (!)

Imagination: what it really means
--Monsters and mermaids, and...
--Every child's right
--How it can change you--and the world

Mummies and More!
--Life and death in ancient Egypt
--What the ancient Egyptians believed
--Strange tales from the search for ancient Egypt

Veils and Hi-Tech: Women in the Middle East today
--Survey of what women's lives are really like
--Why women "veil"
--What the rise of religious fervor means for women

Writing nonfiction
--How it can be as exciting as a story
--Twists and turns of research
--Where my books have taken me

Children's literature about the Middle East
--A lot more than The Arabian Nights!
--What do we need to know?
--How stories can open windows on the world