Speaking Engagements
One of the best parts of my job is getting to share my love of storytelling with students. I am available to provide both in-person and virtual presentations to a variety of group sizes: general assembly, classes, library events, book clubs, etc. I am available for half-day visits (up to three hours) or single class visits (up to 90 minutes), depending on my schedule. I can provide author readings, book signings, writing workshops, improv activities, Q&A sessions, or a combination.
This guide offers an overview of Wendy Lu’s school visits and speaking engagements.
Speaking Inquiry Form
To inquire about booking Wendy for a virtual or in-person visit, please reach out using the form below.
“Every young person should have the chance to meet and hear from Wendy Lu! She has worked with both our middle and high school students, always to rave reviews. Wendy has an uncanny sense for meeting young writers, especially, exactly where they are and leaving them feeling empowered and inspired!” —Lara Bergen, Press Pass NYC
Here are examples of the presentations Wendy offers:
“A Backstage Pass to ‘Casting April’” (45 min) — a behind-the-scenes look at how I came up with the story of “Casting April,” what writing the book was like, and what steps I took to become a published author. Includes a 10-minute reading.
“A ‘Casting April’ Sneak Peek” (15-20 min) — a short book talk and reading from “Casting April,” followed by a Q&A session.
“The Story Within You” (30-45 min) — a writing workshop in which students are given journal prompts inspired by the characters, events, and plot points in “Casting April.” Students get to free-write about the things that are important to them, whether it’s a hobby, a best friend or pet, an accomplishment, or a special memory. Sharing is optional.
“Starring You!” (30-45 min) — an improv workshop in which students receive an introductory lesson to improv and are paired up for two improv games, both featured in “Casting April.” For the first game, “Listen Up,” students practice active listening with their partners. For the second game, “Yes, And,” students learn to build on each their partners’ creative ideas. This workshop helps to build self-confidence, teamwork, and creativity skills.
“Growing Up With a Disability” (30-45 min) — an author talk in which I share what it was like to grow up with a disability — specifically, a tracheostomy tube that helps me breathe (the same disability that my character, April, has). I will share childhood photos, surprising challenges and lessons I’ve learned from having a disability, and my journey to building a writing career.
“The Anatomy of a Story” (30-45 min) — Using “Casting April” as a guide, I walk students through the different parts of a story’s structure, including inciting incident, rising action, climax, and resolution (with a spoiler-free option if students haven’t read the book yet).
“Wendy's visit was thoughtful and engaging for my middle school newspaper staff...Her personal story about finding her niche in the journalism world also inspired students to think more about their own ‘storytelling superpower.’ I highly recommend Wendy to anyone who wants the young people they work with to be able to see how their writing can make a real-world impact!” —Amanda Fredrickson, Liberty Avenue Middle School
