Kathleen Pelley, a native of Glasgow, Scotland, is the author of Happy Mamas and five other picture books. Kathleen enjoys sharing her passion for literature with people of all ages and backgrounds, using her experience as a former elementary teacher, a narrator of books for the blind at Colorado Talking Book Library, a regular presenter at Regis University Student Teachers’ classes, and as a storyteller at an inner-city school for over 20 years. Some of her most recent bookings include: Colorado Council for International Reading, Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) – keynote luncheon, Douglas County Librarians Staff Day – keynote speech.

SHORT BIO

“A book too can be a star, a living f re to lighten the darkness,

leading out into an expanding universe.”

Award Winning Children’s Author, Storyteller & SpeakerSchool & Library Speaking • Conference Keynotes • Staff Development Workshops

Contact Kathleen at kathleen@kathleenpelley.com. • www.kathleenpelley.com

- Madeleine L’Engle

Kathleen Pelley was born in Glasgow, Scotland— a country famous for its heather dappled mountains, lochs, tartans, thistles, shaggy Highland cattle, sheep, bagpipes, castles, haggis, and of course, a veritable treasure chest of stories. Every summer, she visited her grandparents’ farm

in Ireland, where she and her two big brothers whiled away the days with hay-rides, turf-rides, milking cows, shearing sheep, feeding pet lambs, and organizing frog races.

Her passion for stories first stemmed from listening to them: crouched in front of the radio for the BBC children’s hour, or huddled before a turf fire in Ireland as the aunts and uncles talked in low, hushed voices, or walking hand in hand with her dad down a leafy lane.

So much did Kathleen love stories that off she went to Edinburgh University and earned a degree in History. She didn’t much care for all the facts and dates and numbers, but how she loved the stories of Rasputin, Napoleon, and Bonnie Prince Charlie! One character in particular captured Kathleen’s imagination – Florence Nightingale. After earning her degree in History, Kathleen studied to become a children’s nurse, but it was a brief and disastrous dalliance. For much as Kathleen loved children, she did not like to see them sick and suffering. However, decades later, Kathleen now sees herself as a kind of a nurse, because she believes that stories heal the hurts in our hearts.

LONG BIO

Kathleen is the author of Happy Mamas and five other award-winning picture books. Using her experience as a former elementary teacher in her native Scotland, and as a storyteller for over 20 years at an inner-city school in Scotland, Kathleen enjoys sharing her passion for linking literature to life with people of all ages and backgrounds. Her presentations inspire and encourage her listeners to acknowledge the power of reading aloud GOOD stories to children of all ages, and to discover how GOOD stories can lead to GOOD lives.

Kathleen is a popular speaker at schools, libraries, family literacy evenings, mothers’ groups, parish groups, writing conferences, fundraiser events, and young authors’ workshops. Some of her previous bookings include: Colorado Council or International Reading, Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) – keynote luncheon, Douglas County Librarians Staff Day – keynote speech.

When she is not reading, writing, telling, or listening to stories, Kathleen enjoys, Celtic music, Zumba dancing, knitting, visiting family in Scotland and Ireland, spending time with her two grown daughters, Meghan and Roisin, and hiking the sunny trails of Colorado with her husband and two Golden Retrievers, Isla and Fiona.

Using her experience as a former elementary teacher in her native Scotland, and as a storyteller at an inner city school, Kathleen enjoys sharing her passion for stories with people of all ages and from varying backgrounds. Her presentations will inspire and encourage her audience to honor the stories from their own lives, to tap into their own creativity, and to discover how stories can make hearts bigger and better and kinder. Kathleen is a frequent speaker at schools, libraries, and parishes, as well as conferences, universities, and fundraisers. Some of her previous bookings include:

• Colorado Council International Reading Association (CCIRA)

• Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators

• Catholic Women’s Conference

• Children’s Literature Classes at Regis University and Denver University (student teachers)

• Women’s College, DU (Writer’s Group)

• Children’s Hospital (Supporters and Benefactors)

• Denver Public Library (Reach Out and Read Volunteers)

• Douglas County Libraries (Keynote Speaker for Staff Development Day)

• Child Welfare League of America 2015 National Conference (Keynote Luncheon Speaker)

• Church Groups

To view a sampling of Kathleen’s Speaking Presentations, click here.

EXPERIENCE

Children’s Presentations Storytime – Kindergarten Kathleen will read aloud Happy Mamas or Raj, the Bookstore Tiger, share some fun facts about her homeland, Scotland, and share some background with the children about how she became an author. (20 minutes)

“The teachers were every bit as enthralled as the children. In kindergarten we especially loved the lesson of burning bright, like stars in whatever you do and whatever you are.” - Laura McClain, Trinity School, Durham, NC.

Journey with Story – Grades 1-8 Using any one of her six picture books, Kathleen explores how stories are like journeys. What do we take in our suitcases? What obstacles might we meet? Will there be diversions? What are our favorite parts? What souvenirs will we bring back? These are some of the questions that form part of this thought provoking and popular presentation. (45-60 minutes)

“Kathleen took us on an adventure that makes us want to pack up a suitcase of her books and set sail for an adventure of your heart.” - Erika Brimberry, Hearts at Home Group, Highlands Ranch, CO

Inspiration – Grades 4-6 Kathleen will explore what inspiration is and how you can nurture it to live a more creative and joy-filled life. She will share the five Ps of inspiration behind all of her books and end with a Q & A session. (45-60 minutes)

“Kathleen’s presentation was educational and inspirational. Her love of books and writing is contagious.” - Jaclyn Kleinsmith, Triangle Day School, Durham, NC

Writers’ Roots – Grades 2-6 (Ideal for young authors’ events) Kathleen will explore her writer’s “roots” — exploring how her childhood in Scotland and Ireland led to her becoming a writer, a reader, a teller and a listener of stories. She will finish with some tips on how to keep your writer’s roots nourished and watered. (45-60 minutes)

“I loved that you included Latin in your presentation. I teach my 8th grade Latin and Greek and Old English etymology. It is so important to understand the tradition of words and I appreciate you reinforcing that.” - Cristina Russell, Language Arts Teacher, Guardian Angels School, CO

Adults’ ProgramsHappy Mamas: An Ode to Mothers & All Who Nurture Goodness in the World

Knowing that we are made in the image of our creator, is it any wonder that the path to happiness lies not in fame or fortune, nor in power or possessions? Rather, it lies in the act of loving – be it toddlers or teenagers, friends or foes; in the act of creating, be it mud pies or mince pies, sandcastles or silly songs; and in the act of birthing new life into the world – sounds a lot like…. MOTHERHOOD!

In this presentation, Kathleen emphasizes the importance of nurturing a passion for stories in our little ones, explores the link between happiness and motherhood, and affirms her listeners as women who MOTHER the goodness in their children, in one another, and in the world.

“Kathleen’s passion for storytelling and her messages of wonder, love, and hope are truly relevant to all mothers. I know I was not the only one to leave her presentation feeling inspired.” - Theresa Giarratano, Magnificat Mom

SPEAKING TOPICS

SPEAKING TOPICSWriters’ Roots

Similar to the children’s presentation above but tailored for adult writers, Kathleen will explore her writer’s “roots” and finish with some tips on how to keep your writer’s roots nourished and watered.

“This was a wonderful evening, enjoyed by student authors and parents alike. Kathleen is an absolute delight. Wonderful content, inspiration and spirit.” - Sue Edwards, Executive Director, Community Resources Inc .Family Literacy Night

“As is a tale, so is life…” Linking literature to Life (Popular for Keynote events) Tapping into her experience of reading aloud at an inner city school for over twenty years, Kathleen explores the similarities between good stories and good lives that are rooted in love, wonder, all wellness, courage and hope. An inspiring session for people from all walks of life.

“It was the perfect balance of storytelling, humor, wisdom and life lessons, with a bit of childlike wonder thrown in for good measure. A great end to a special day.” - Art Glover, Associate Director, Douglas County Libraries. Keynote speech for Douglas County Librarians Staff Day.

Hero or Stranger? Famous or Great? It all depends on…Point of View

It has been said that there are only two stories in the world: a hero goes on a journey, or a stranger comes to town. How we perceive people and see the world around us depends on…. our point of view. This presentation, based on her award winning book, The Sandal Artist (Colorado Book Award finalist and 2013 World Storytelling Honor Award) encourages listeners to see that Point of View is not just a literary technique but a life lesson.

“By far the most motivational and real class! Loved it!” - Cami Vowell, CCIRA conference attendee

“Food for my soul. Thank you for reminding me what truly matters.” - Mary Rose, CCIRA conference attendee

“This is the second time I have heard you speak. You leave me inspired and excited about sharing a love of reading with our children.” - Mary Ellen Dillman, CCIRA conference attendee

Ten Traits of Timeless Tales

In a world that offers an infinite bounty of books, how do parents choose what makes a great read aloud for a five-year-old or a twelve-year-old? Based on world literacy expert, Mem Fox’s words, “I believe reading aloud cures pretty much everything from warts to global warming,” this session emphasizes the importance of reading aloud to children of all ages, and explores the hallmarks of good stories that feed children’s hearts with hope and courage and joy.

“Every year I attend CCIRA, I always attend her sessions. She is so magical and inspiring. She brings joyful tears to my eyes and lights a passion in my heart for stories that will teach generations to come.” - Ashley Perez, Grandview Elementary, CO

SPEAKING TOPICSThe Giant King: A Tool for Teaching Tolerance – Teachers/Parents

Kathleen’s book, The Giant King, has been used successfully in many schools as part of their anti-bullying campaign. In this presentation, Kathleen will explore the themes from this book: belonging, inclusiveness, and kindness. Teacher’s activity guide available, as well as a list of peace-building stories. (1 Hour)

“I hear you every year, and you always inspire me to reach the whole child.” - Lori Hattendorf, Bear Creek School, Boulder CCIRA conference attendees

Religious PresentationsSuitable for church groups, MOPS groups, women’s conferences

Happy Mamas – An Ode to Mothers Based on Kathleen’s most recent book, Happy Mamas Similar to the general presentation above, Kathleen explores the link between happiness and motherhood, affirms her listeners as women of God who are called to be mirrors of grace and goodness and light by MOTHERING the holy in their children, in one another, and in the world.

Story as Prayer

Both Story and Prayer stem from a radical response to life. Both Story and Prayer involve a “long, loving look at the real.” Both Story and Prayer encourage us to see what Elizabeth Barrett Browning said, “All of earth is crammed with Heaven.” Both Story and Prayer feed our hearts and souls with wonder and awe, truth and beauty, grace and goodness, kindness and compassion.

Kathleen explores how sharing GOOD stories with children can deepen their love of the Lord and feed their souls with hope and joy. She invites her audience to see the links between GOOD stories and an active prayer life and thus discover how we can all be little “words of God, who will one day join together to spell out His glory.”

In His Footsteps

Based on The Sandal Artist – Winner of the Bock Book Award for fostering Franciscan Values

What better way to teach your children how to walk in Jesus’ sandals than with a story? In this presentation Kathleen invites her audience to explore how good stories can broaden our point of view, help us to walk a mile in another’s moccasins, see the world through another’s eyes, feel it with another’s heart, see the Christ in another, and thus find grace and beauty in unexpected places.

Equipment

All presentations are in PowerPoint (except for Kindergarten). Kathleen will bring a flash drive. She needs the hosting site to provide:

• Laptop computer

• Screen

• Helper to have equipment set up 15 minutes before the presentation begins

• Guide to meet her and direct her to speaking area

• Hands-free microphone (for large groups)

• Table—to lay out all her stuff

• Water

Autographing

Kathleen will be available to sign books before or after her visit.

Fees

Contact Kathleen for more information.

Group Size

You may make your group as small or large as you wish. Most children benefit from a group size that is not larger than 60. However, it depends on the individual school and Kathleen is very flexible and has given presentations to assemblies as large as 1,000.

VISIT INFO

BOOK REVIEWSTHE GIANT KING ILLUSTRATED BY MAURIE J. MANNING

“A touching fantasy that is filled with truth. Told with understanding, this is a story children will love and learn from.” - Eve Bunting, Children’s Author

“Kathleen Pelley’s story echoes the old fairy tales in its style, and its gentle moral is especially timely in our own, often frightening world.” - Mary Ann Hoberman, Children’s Poet Laureate

“What a welcome tonic is this delightful story in a world where human kindness seems in short supply. Bravo to Kathleen Pelley!” - Eileen Spinelli, Children’s Author

• NAPPA Storytelling Award for Kathleen’s Narration on CD 2010

INVENTOR MCGREGOR ILLUSTRATED BY MICHAEL CHESWORTH

“Preschoolers will love the nonsense of the contraptions, beautifully captured in the sound and the rhythm of the storytelling. The wild, double-page watercolor spreads celebrate the farcical gadgets the inventor uses.” - Booklist

“There is a natural lilt to the language that lends it a folkloric quality. Charming.” -School Library Journal

“The sprightly pastel drawings are as lighthearted as the text, which bursts with energy and inventiveness.” - Kirkus Reviews

• Colorado Book Award 2007

• Bank Street Best Book Award 2007

MAGNUS MAXIMUS, A MARVELOUS MEASURER ILLUSTRATED BY S.D. SCHINDLER

“What a marvelous reading adventure Magnus Maximus is for any reader! … This book should certainly be placed in every library and read often by adults and children.” - Starred, Library Media Connection

“Children will enjoy the humor in this eccentric’s ever-increasing obsession.” - School Library Journal

“What a wonderful story for the children’s hour! Even adults will be mesmerized by the obsessively measuring Magnus.” - San Francisco Book Review

“Though sweet, the turn of events is not treacly, keeping the tale’s pleasing silliness at the forefront. With equal humor, Schindler’s muted, intricately crosshatched illustrations depict a formal, British 19th-century setting, with corseted ladies and men in top hats--the perfect foil to the ludicrous scenes. The comically pained expression of the lion, his whiskers stretched out to measure, is priceless.” - Publishers Weekly

“A lovely marriage of word and image. Pelley’s text is brightly humorous and musical.” - Kirkus Reviews

• Colorado Book Award 2011

• Bank Street Best Book Award 2011

• Oppenheimer Toy Portfolio Award 2011

• Anne Izard Storytelling Award 2011

BOOK REVIEWSRAJ, THE BOOKSTORE TIGER ILLUSTRATED BY PAIGE KEISER

“Felicity brings out Raj’s inner tiger again with a little William Blake, and, similarly, Raj uses a book about India to show Snowball her inner tigress. The two can now prowl the store in harmony. The sophisticated narrative, with its nice streak of irony, suits older picture-book audiences; Keiser’s watercolor-and-pencil pictures are aptly clever and low-key. Nice nourishment for the blossoming bookworm.” - Kirkus Reviews

“Youngsters will wish they could be part of Felicity’s storytime with a marmalade cat in their laps. Raj’s self-esteem issues will resonate with youngsters and spark discussions.” - School Library Journal

“The calming watercolors and lively facial expressions help bring the characters to life in this engaging read-aloud story. This book teaches young readers about self-esteem, and although the story shows representations of bullies, the sweet ending will leave children with a comfortable feeling.” - BayViews

• Bank Street Best Book 2012

• Colorado Book Award Finalist 2012

• Colorado Authors’ League Top Hand Award 2012

• Cardoza Finalist 2012

THE SANDAL ARTIST ILLUSTRATED BY LOIS ROSIO SPRAGUE

“Roberto sees things through a different lens after walking in another man’s shoes -- that’s exactly what empathy can do for someone. Research tells us that children who read fiction have higher levels of empathy and we know that empathy elevates when people witness or experience it. Watching Roberto’s life transform will be a powerful experience for young and old alike who take a walk in those sandals with him. Check out this book; I think you’ll be glad you did!” - Barbara, The Corner on Character

“Beautifully written and illustrated, The Sandal Artist shares the message that beauty and grace exists in everything and everyone around us. Although it is a picture book, it may be more suited for older children as My 8-year-old smiled sweetly the first time Roberto noticed something from a different perspective.” - Macaroni Kid

“The bold, sweeping, stylized artwork distinguishes this dramatic story of learning to see everyday people in a new way. Highly recommended.” - James A. Cox, The Midwest Book Review

“Sprague’s rich acrylics-over-black paintings suggest a Renaissance setting, and listeners will be drawn to the characters’ expressive faces. The religious undertones make this a natural choice as a Sunday school read-aloud, but the story also works in secular settings to explain the concept of walking a mile in another person’s shoes.” - Kay Weisman, Booklist Online

“Sometimes a truly wonderful book comes along that we share with our children so that they may learn, understand and develop compassion for the human condition. Occasionally we share a heartfelt book to touch on the inner beauty of not only our children, but also others. Kathleen T. Pelley’s new book The Sandal Artist is one of those special books that belong in our children’s hands... Kathleen Pelley’s words heal hearts as they bring a gentle kindness to the world within her pages. Paired with Lois Rosio Sprague’s deep rich painterly illustrations, The Sandal Artist is a charming tale about looking for the inner beauty, and grandeur that resides in us all; A profound gift for those special children in your life.” - Rhonda Cratty, The Examiner

“Every page of The Sandal Artist opens on a delight to the eye. Characters with personality fill the foreground, and details are in the background that make one pause for study. The story walks a fine line between folk legend, village music, and Gospel overtones. It is told in a direct and captivating way, and brings one to a new way of understanding how to see people and things.” - Brother Paul Quenon, Abbey of Gethsemani

• Storytelling World Honor Award 2013

• Bock Book Award for Fostering Franciscan Values 2013

• Colorado Book Award Finalist 2013