Here are just a few responses to my school and conference visits over the years…

Sneed’s online visits with our Primary-aged children during Book Week, was an absolute highlight! Students were “enlightened”, by his session on ocean animals that create their own light and his own experience in a submersible. Other students got to learn about his love of birds and how a passion like that, can result in so many published books. Parents weren’t left out either and got to have their own session with Sneed with a focus on birding and non-fiction writing. I highly recommend Sneed as a guest author for students and parents alike. On my own desk right here, I now have a book about birdwatching, so I can personally vouch for the positive impact that Sneed’s sessions can have! —Tania Jordan, Teacher Librarian, Yew Chung International School of Shanghai

“Sneed Collard spent seven days at the Walworth Barbour American International School in Israel, interacting with all of our students, ages 3 – 18. His presentations for all age groups were fascinating and his workshops engaged students in the essence of writing: paragraph revision, using active verbs and transitions. He encouraged students to really think about their writing and his prepared materials were of the highest quality. I received nothing but positive feedback from both teachers and students about his visit.” —Ilana Locker, Director of Library Services

“A million thanks Sneed. Hawthorne Elementary loved having you and so did I. Thanks for sharing your newest novel with us.” —Andree Anderberg, Librarian, Helena, Montana

“Your presentation at PSE this morning was outstanding.  Your conversation about writing in a journal and showing yours, the pictures of your developing life, and your admission of your likes and dislikes made you real to the student audience.  It was terrific how you showed them how your own love of reading, writing and researching developed.  The talk was a great blend of information and entertainment.  Teachers and students alike thought you were awesome…”one of the best ever.” —Wendy Hardy, Librarian, Leawood, Kansas

“I had been reading his newly released book, Double Eagle, when (Sneed) just “happened to call” about a school visit.  I was so thrilled with his work, that I immediately booked him as our guest speaker.  His visit was a highlight of the year for many of our students, as not only did he speak with humor and experience at our all-school assembly for grades 4 through 8, but meet with individual classes for a more intimate talk about the writing process.  I would not hesitate to invite him again, when he is on our east coast, as our students continue to read his newly published books.” —Tina Hudak, Librarian, St. Albans School, Washington, D.C.

“The whole school was abuzz after you left. Kids so darn excited. I haven’t seen this much excitement in a long time!” —Roxanne Hovenkotter, Librarian, Polson, Montana

“I’ve heard so many good comments from the teachers about your visit here today, they were really impressed! They commented on how well you engaged your audience, held their attention for so long, (even the kindergarten and first grades), the pace of the presentation, and the all important points you made about research, observing, and being well-read before you can be a good writer. It makes a big impact on kids when they hear it from someone besides their teacher or parents, someone who is making a living as a writer, and who has had all the exciting life opportunities because they choose to be a writer. And even better, we had some of the boys who don’t always want to read, actually make a point of telling me which books they want to borrow from the library or purchase from the Sneed collection, and to make sure I held one for them. Girls, too, were excited to read many of your titles.” —Carol Smallwood, Librarian, Fairbanks, Alaska

“Sneed’s session with our teachers was more pertinent to what we are trying to do than any other author we have had visit our school.  His focus on the Common Core aligned with our requirements, but he gave us a much more creative avenue by which to reach our goals.  Our staff was refreshed by Sneed’s approach to teaching writing and we look forward to implementing the ideas gained from his workshop.  It was a fabulous visit!” —Lori Lancaster, Librarian, Casper, Wyoming

“Wow! You knocked the socks off Callaway’s students and faculty! They loved your presentations and said you were wonderful.” Kristy Cossett, Media Specialist, Callaway Elementary School, Panama City, Florida

“Thank you very much for being our ‘guest author’ this year. I can pretty well sum up the feelings around here as ‘the best guest author we have had’ (from the teachers) and ‘totally cool, awesome, great, fun’ (from the kids). We hope you can come back sometime!” -Jan Madison, PTA President, Lewis & Clark School, Missoula, Montana

“Again, thank you so much for coming to our school. I have had nothing but good remarks about your presentations. Both students and teachers were excited and enjoyed the assemblies. We will be glad to recommend you to other schools.” -Donna Connell, Sunrise Elementary, Verdale, Washington

“Thank you very much for participating in our conference and visiting schools in Colorado. You did a great job in schools It has been enjoyable working with you. You are a professional.” -Frank Van De Hey, Colorado Council of International Reading Association.

“What a wonderful day! I feel I’ve made a new friend and had the pleasure to spend time with a talented author and nice people! Thank you so much for giving of your time and talents for these kids! They loved you! What an adventure! ANY Time!” -Kris Flynn, San Diego County Office of Education.