Book an Author Visit
Jordyn loves talking to teen readers about the craft of writing and what it’s like to be an author, and she has extensive experience presenting to schools and libraries in-person and virtually.
Choose from one of her tried-and-true presentations on historical fiction or character-building, or customize a presentation to best suit your students’ needs.
Jordyn’s ready-made presentations run for an hour, and are designed for up to 60 students, grades 7 and up.
Time-Traveling Through Historical Fiction
Get ready to travel back in time! Jordyn Taylor will lead students on a journey to the past to learn about researching and writing historical fiction, including the incredible people and events that inspired her young-adult novels. Jordyn will start by revealing how her novel THE PAPER GIRL OF PARIS (winner of the Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People) was inspired by the real-life discovery of a Paris apartment that had been locked since the Second World War. After explaining the difference between primary and secondary historical documents, Jordyn will show students some of the wartime diary entries that shaped pivotal scenes and characters in the book. Participants will then take part in a fun creative writing exercise to craft a fictional diary entry in a historical setting of their choosing. By the end of the session, students will come away with their own budding historical fiction ideas and the knowledge of how to bring them to life.
Equipment required: projector; writing materials for students
An Exercise in Character-Building
What makes a book character jump off the page? Jordyn Taylor will teach students the secrets to writing three-dimensional characters who live on in readers’ memories. Jordyn will start by revealing her surprising techniques for creating characters out of thin air. Then, she’ll explain the importance of showing instead of telling in writing, and lead students in an interactive activity to practice their descriptive writing skills. Participants will then take part in a fun creative writing exercise, where Jordyn will present a series of historical portraits, and students will make up backstories and other character traits for the people in the images. By the end of the session, students will come away with new character ideas to craft stories of their own.
Equipment required: projector; writing materials for students
Here’s what teachers have said about Jordyn’s author visits:
“Jordyn Taylor inspired my college-level students to think critically about how they might engage with historical time periods in their own writing and offered concrete tips for conducting historical research. She even got them brainstorming possible directions for their own historical fiction. A highly dynamic, engaging, informative presentation.”
Andrew Katz, teacher, Dawson College
“What stood out most was how deeply curious the students became—not just about her books, but about Jordyn’s personal path to becoming an author, including the ins and outs of writing and publishing. Several students have since shared that they’re feeling motivated to write their own short stories using ideas sparked during her visit. “
Cristina Castiglione, Grade 8 ELA Teacher, Rosemere High School
“Jordyn Taylor was the best author we've had. She was engaging, could get the kids to focus, had plenty of practical things for the kids to do, and had a demeanor that won her audience over.”
Max Crowther, Librarian, Bishop’s College School
“Throughout the session, Jordyn introduced effective techniques for character development, using relatable examples and references to texts familiar to the students. Her approach captured their attention, and was met with lively participation in the activities.”
Lea Beddia, English Teacher, Joliette High School