school visits

Are you a teacher or media specialist in Central Florida?

I’m currently scheduling author visits for the 2026-2027 school year. My presentations are suited for students in grades K through 3 and take 45 minutes. Each program explores a theme from one of my four books. When scheduling your author visit, you can choose which presentation fits your students’ interest. For one-half day visit, your school will receive five free books of your choice. I am a retired educator, who is Addition approved, and a registered vendor with OCPS.

Buddy the Beagle on Blueberry Street (Grades 2-3)

Buddy the beagle experiences an accident that leaves him unable to walk. Student volunteers will participate in an activity that teaches the importance of persevering when facing a physical challenge. The author visit includes:

  • How authors get their ideas.
  • How authors develop ideas into a story.
  • Dog Trivia
  • Author Q and A

Return to Blueberry Street (Grades 2-3)

Buddy leads his canine companions on a mission to track down the bandit who is stealing their dog treats. Students will play a game which involves problem solving by gathering clues through observation. The author visit includes:

  • How authors get their ideas
  • How authors develop ideas into a story.
  • Dog Trivia
  • Author Q and A

Truckload of Trouble (Grades 2-3)

When Buddy’s owner takes in a stray Australian cattle dog, the family’s world turns upside down. In this presentation the students learn that combining two different materials can produce a better product and demonstrates friendship is possible between different breeds of dogs who have dissimilar backgrounds. The author visit includes:

  • How authors get their ideas.
  • How authors develop ideas into a story.
  • Dog Trivia
  • Author Q and A

Manatee School (grades K-1)

Young Emily joins Grandpa for a unique water adventure by canoe. She watches while Grandpa teaches his class of manatee students how to stay safe in a world of environmental dangers. The author visit includes:

  • Manatee School read-aloud.
  • Why I wrote this book.
  • Amazing facts about Florida manatees and how we can help protect them.
  • Downloadable activity sheets available here.

If you are interested in scheduling an author visit please leave your information here and I will be glad to connect with you. My regular fee for a half-day visit is $150 for schools in the Central Florida area.

Students may order a signed copy of a book of their choice by completing the order form which I will send to you by email once your visit is scheduled.

***

“Mrs. Burton inspired our students to keep reading and writing. Her presentation is an incredible experience!” —Natalie Scott, media specialist

“My third and fourth grade students were enamored by Debbie’s author talk and are requesting Buddy books in our school library.” —Dana Schmitt, media specialist, Southwood Elementary School Orlando, FL