Patsi B. Trollinger


	Teachers and staff members at Hurt Park Elementary in Roanoke, VA, created a display of farm implements to grab the attention of their city-dwelling students. In the above picture, the table behind me is filled with items from barns and stables. The other end of the room looked like the interior of a horse barn, complete with bales of straw and a saddle. Having objects to touch and discuss stimulated lots of interest among the students and helped them understand the environment described in Perfect Timing. Having "artifacts" - things to touch - is a great way to involve reluctant readers, including boys.


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School Visits and Author Presentations

Patsi B. Trollinger is a veteran speaker and teacher who brings energy and creativity to her presentations. Following are some suggested topics for school visits or other settings, and she's glad to respond to special requests. Also on this website, you'll find an Educator's Kit (16 pages; click here to download PDF) and lesson ideas from other teachers.

Are Authors Smarter than Fifth Graders?
Five ways that writing a book is like trying to please a teacher. (The writing and revising process.)

Plunge into Reading
The power of words to win friends, influence people, and unclog a few toilet bowls. (Joys of reading, whether you prefer a novel or a repair manual.)

Hoof Beats and History Sleuths
An interactive session that digs into the mystery of creating a book and the fun of a horse racing story.

Pig Skulls and Pied Pipers
Promoting books with boys and other reluctant readers.

Graphic Novels: Trash or Treasure in the Classroom?
A look at the rising popularity of graphic-art books.

In addition, Patsi is happy to plan and lead workshops on topics such as writing and editing, historical research, and the publishing process.

• School visit brochure (PDF file for download)

• Current rate for school visits is $500 per day plus travel expenses (discounts available for schools within a one-hour drive of Danville, KY, or Bristol, VA-TN). A one-day visit may include up to four presentations (for example: three small groups and one large group, or four small groups). It's fine to add a breakfast or lunch with students, a read-aloud in the library, and an after-school literacy event for parents or teachers. Events can be adapted for students with special needs.

• Contact Patsi Trollinger by e-mail (or phone 859-236-0135).

• Printable press kit about the author and the book, including useful historical information about Isaac Murphy and his era.



	Junior Library Guild Selection 2006

		Isaac Murphy was twelve years old when he climbed on a horse named Volcano. That ride ended with Isaac in the dirt, but with a few years later, he was one of the most famous athletes in America. Perfect Timing features dramatic scenes of horseracing and the inspiring true story of a boy.
		Viking Books - 2006 Ages 7 and up Illustrated by Jerome Lagarrigue