Welcome to ssmatheson.ca

Shirlee Smith Matheson bio:

“Adventures and mysteries abound in Shirlee Smith Matheson’s 18 award-winning teen novels, nonfiction books, short stories and plays. For her aviation mysteries, and wilderness and urban dramas, she meets, researches, and then writes of characters that live on the edge. Learn how you can turn real life stories into exciting dramas through opening your eyes and ears to the sensational stories all around us.”

MINING FOR GOLD

Shirlee Smith Matheson

 What would you do if someone asked you to write their life story? How would you start? With a “hook” of course – a fascinating incident that immediately captures the uniqueness of that person.  In workshop classes we’ll discover how to zero in on that exciting take-off point, and how to interview people to discover their inner wealth. Through in-class exercises, we’ll explore intriguing places (setting), learn to write about out-of-the-ordinary people (characters), and weave exciting stories (plots) to create important and meaningful stories about the people around you, from family and friends to local heroes!  Pure gold!

Stories of real Canadians are brought to life in Matheson's nonfiction books—priests, pilots, explorers, engineers, bushmen and prospectors—their adventures excite readers of all ages.

By combining readings from her books with inter-active workshops, Shirlee Smith Matheson will visit groups, from grades one through to adults, to introduce them to techniques for writing fiction and nonfiction. Compatible grade groups (1-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12) are requested, with maximum attendance at readings, 100; at workshops, 25. All that's needed is a library or classroom, a table, a black/white board—and a roomful of potential writers.

Call:
Simply phone the author at 403.283.0843, to discuss your needs and set a date. You may have to call several months in advance to get a booking on a specific date. October and November are always the busiest months. Check "action" the Literary Log page for a suitable date. This page is kept up to date on a regular basis.

Young Alberta Book Society:
Alberta schools, libraries and organizations could also allow the Young Alberta Book Society (YABS) in Edmonton to handle arrangements. Membership is $50, including GST, per year and YABS will provide the funding for mileage and accommodation during October. Trailblazers bookings open May 1 and run to late September. Call 780.422.8232 or visit their website: http://www.yabs.ab.ca/

Readings:
Readings may also be arranged through The Writers Union of Canada. Phone: 416.703.8982, or email to info@writersunion.ca for information.

Preparation for Visit:
After you have set the date, it is beneficial to prepare the students by reading some of the author's books ahead of time. The students will be curious and excited about the visit, and can then make up a series of questions to ask the author. If you cannot purchase the books from your local book store or library sales supplier, please use the Order Form:

To make arrangements for a visit please email: shirlee@telusplanet.net

Please note that audio or video taping during presentations is not allowed

Back to Top

Reading Duration:
One-hour (two=half-day; four=full day); maximum 100 students

Workshop Duration:
Two-hours (one-half-day, two=full day), maximum 25 students

Rates:
$250 per half-day (two readings or one workshop)
$500 for full day (four readings, or two workshops, or combo), plus travel and accommodation costs.

How to Book:
Direct bookings for author readings and/or writing workshops:
phone: 403.283.0843

I look forward to hearing from you

Back to Top