Cryptids in Storytelling
For Cryptid & Paranormal Conferences:
In Cryptids in Storytelling, Michael discusses the real-world legends, fisherman folklore, and sea monster mythology that inspired his award-winning Winslow Hoffner series. He shares the original legend of each fantastic creature, then dives into how he adapted these cryptids into a cohesive narrative for his books, both through the written word and illustrations.
Featured in the Library of Congress' What If...? Sci-Fi/Fantasy & Paranormal Forum, listeners delight in exploring lesser-known aquatic legends that may still be out there, lurking in the unexplored depths of the sea.
Testimonials:
“We had the pleasure of hosting Michael Thomson as a guest speaker at our Cryptid festival in Massachusetts in September. He captivated our guests with his talk on sea monsters and legends that inspired his Winslow Hoffner series. Everyone who had heard his talk or met him at his table afterwards had nothing but nice things to say about how informative, charming and professional Michael was. We are looking forward to hosting him again.” - Jessica Carlozzi, Host of Cryptidbits with General Tidbits & MA CyptidFest
Beyond the PAge
For School Talks & Literacy Events:
As an inspirational speaker, Michael has presented to audiences of all ages about staying creative, following their dreams, and the writing and publishing process. His talks, Beyond the Page and Don't Quit Your Daydream are perfect for literacy events at schools and libraries and explore how a spark of inspiration becomes a published book. To these shows, How to Draw Chicken Boy tutorials can be added.
Michael has been a featured author at Read Across America, a self-publishing panelist at Fall for the Book, and a special guest at a variety of conventions, book fairs, and festivals.
Testimonials:
"Michael Thompson's presentation was fantastic! The students were engaged and eager to hear more. He visited our school during Read Across America Week to talk about being a writer and share his books . . . The students loved hearing about the writing process, and they are constantly asking to check out his books in our library. It was really neat to see the students get so excited to meet the author of some of their favorite books. I highly recommend having Michael visit your school. Your students will thank you!" - Sheri D'Amato, Librarian, Cedar Point Elementary
Setting Up An Event
Details:
Talks last 45 minutes. These can include the main topic, along with a reading and/or Q&A period.
Please email admin@michaelthompsonbooks.com for rates and availability. Gas/airfare and lodging fees may be required. To keep costs low, additional schools and libraries are welcome to coordinate events to split travel/lodging costs, and Michael can stay in your area for extra days to meet everyone.
Distributing book order forms is appreciated (see Press Kit). Students can order Michael's books in advance and Michael will stay afterward to sign each book brought in on the day of the event.
Testimonials
“We had the pleasure of hosting Michael Thomson as a guest speaker at our Cryptid festival in Massachusetts in September. He captivated our guests with his talk on sea monsters and legends that inspired his Winslow Hoffner series. Everyone who had heard his talk or met him at his table afterwards had nothing but nice things to say about how informative, charming and professional Michael was. We are looking forward to hosting him again.” - Jessica Carlozzi, Host of Cryptidbits with General Tidbits & MA CyptidFest
"Michael Thompson's presentation was fantastic! The students were engaged and eager to hear more. He visited our school during Read Across America Week to talk about being a writer and share his books . . . The students loved hearing about the writing process, and they are constantly asking to check out his books in our library. It was really neat to see the students get so excited to meet the author of some of their favorite books. I highly recommend having Michael visit your school. Your students will thank you!" - Sheri D'Amato, Librarian, Cedar Point Elementary
"Michael has put together a great presentation! He incorporates the writing process and explains how he started writing at the elementary level. He is very engaging and energetic. Students really enjoy it. He has been speaking to my students for years and has really inspired them!" - Chuck Aracich, Teacher, T. Clay Wood Elementary
"Michael has a gift for connecting with students and sharing his passion for writing in an entertaining and engaging manner. Through telling his own story, reading excerpts from his books and teaching his art of illustration, my students were completely captivated!" - Kim Ainsworth, Teacher, Weems Elementary
"Mr. Michael Thompson spoke at our recent Literacy Night and shared his writing process and the evolution from idea to finished product. He also read from his books. Our students loved his presentation and were very interested to read his books which we now have in our library. I recommend Mr. Thompson for school literacy or reading events." - Andrew Buchheit, Principal, T. Clay Wood Elementary