Author Visits

Kit with blogger Dovegreyreader at        Port Eliot Lit Fest

I enjoy getting out and about and talking to people about reading, writing and books; I see this as a vital part of my work.

I was a teacher for many years before becoming a full-time writer, and I really love doing author visits. I offer talks on reading, the power of story and my books, and creative writing workshops – or a combination of both.  I work with groups of adults, teenagers and children, and enjoy taking part in book signings and charity events, as well as Skype sessions for book clubs.  I’m represented by the well-known author agency, Authors Aloud.  Please look at my page on their website and get in touch if you’d like to discuss booking me for an event.

For adults:

I give talks and run workshops at many different events including literary festivals, conferences, libraries, creative writing groups, adult education classes, book groups, literary lunches, women’s groups, and health and healing events.

Kit speaking at a Literary Festival

Kit runs a workshop at Reading Writers’ Group

Many people feel they have a book inside them, and I explain how I turned my life around by self-publishing my books initially, before signing a major publishing deal. My talks are inspirational and uplifting, and I also run creative workshops for adults of all levels of writing experience.

I’ve been interviewed many times for local radio, newspapers and magazines, and enjoy taking part in discussion panels.

For schools:

Kit teaches a class of Yr 8 pupils in Torrington

I tailor my visit to the group and prefer a single class at a time, although I can speak to larger audiences if required. I’m experienced with pupils from Years 5 – 6 in primary, Years 7 – 11 in secondary, and A level and under-graduate students in higher education. I aim to motivate young people, creating excitement and enthusiasm about reading and writing. I discuss how our primeval love of story fits into the modern world, and why reading fiction can make you more intelligent.

A World Book Day talk to Yr 10s in Dorchester

My sessions are lively, stimulating and interactive. I’m completely flexible, but usually aim for a 50 minute talk to fit in the school timetable. This includes a discussion about reading, writing and story, my own experiences of writing, and the unusual and rather magical inspiration for my Stonewylde series. I also read from my books and do a Q&A session.

In my creative writing workshops I demonstrate how the most mundane life experiences and personal anecdotes can be harvested, and used as inspiration. Pupils will come away with plenty of ideas for future writing, which class teachers can build upon. My workshops are successful with even the most reluctant writer as the emphasis is on fun – we all have a wealth of stories locked away inside us just waiting to be released.

Yr 9 boys in Barnstaple having their books signed

I can combine my talk on books, reading and Stonewylde with my workshop on creative writing for an action-packed single session. I’m also open to alternative ideas and suggestions from schools and colleges.

Rates and availability:
I’m happy to discuss my fee, which is in line with the Society of Authors’ guidelines for visiting authors. I’ll do as many sessions as you like within the time available.  I can negotiate a lower rate for local visits which won’t involve so much travelling time, and also charity events.

Kit runs a writing workshop for youngsters in Waterstones, Guildford

I live in Reading, Berkshire, and am willing to travel long distances (including other countries) so long as reasonable travel expenses and accommodation are provided. I prefer to drive wherever possible, and will stay with friends if I can, to keep costs down. If coming by car I like to bring copies of my books, which I sell at a discounted price, and I always give away book marks and badges. Alternatively I’d be glad for a bookseller to provide this service. I’m happy to dedicate and sign my books after a session. I’ll donate a copy for the school library, and will not rush off if anyone wants a chat with me after the event.

I can also offer a Skype session, which works particularly well for book groups, and will negotiate a very reasonable fee for this service.

Some testimonials for my talks and workshops:
‘Kit Berry is a highly engaging and informative speaker. My students learned much about the craft of writing, and also about the life of a writer in the changing circumstances of the new century.’
Dr Mark Rutter, Dept of Creative Writing, University of Winchester

Kit and some lively Yr 6 pupils in Weymouth

‘The children were fascinated by Kit’s visit – her ability to relate to them at their level was first-class. She mixed personal anecdote with believable mystery so that by the end of the session they were mesmerised with the magical possibilities that they had suddenly realised were all around them – and I was left determined to read all her books!’
Freda Ellis, Y6 teacher, St Andrew’s School, Weymouth

‘We were delighted to welcome author Kit Berry to re-launch our Library. Kit spoke to several classes of Year 8/9 students about writing the ‘Stonewylde’ series, followed by a creative writing exercise with each class. Kit’s books have been so popular with staff and students that Librarians were inundated with requests for all titles in the series since her visit. Kit was a resounding success!’
Lyn Friend – Head Librarian, Pilton Community College, Barnstaple

‘We all found your talk very inspiring. The young people could really relate to your stories and they were very interested indeed.’
Jane Hensen, Therapeutic Storytelling Group, Berkshire Adolescent Unit, Wokingham Hospital 

Kit and pupils from Eastleigh at the Wessex Literary Festival

‘The students were thoroughly engaged throughout their sessions with Kit and focussed on the learning activity. The morning was relaxed, fun, informative and inspirational – enjoyed by students and staff alike. We were all very excited to meet her – she spent time talking and listening to everyone. We would thoroughly recommend schools and libraries to invite Kit in to share a little bit of her Stonewylde magic with them.’
Maddi Heinrich, Thomas Hardye School, Dorchester (Yrs 10 & 11)

Charity Events and Booksignings:
I love to take part in charity events and am happy to offer story-telling sessions, a talk about my books, or whatever is required.

Charity event Save the Tiger at St Pancras, reading stories to tots

I also love meeting my readers and potential readers at booksigning events, and I have done a huge number of these over the years.  It’s wonderful to meet people who are fans and feel passionate about one’s books, and I welcome invitations to spend time in book shops – especially when staff are fans too!

Contact Authors Aloud to discuss a visit:

Please contact Authors Aloud if you’d like to book me for a visit, or discuss ideas for one.  I’m as flexible as I can be, and always happy to have a chat about your requirements.  Click here to get in touch.

A busy book signing in Dorchester