Authors Online Profile

Karen McCombie | Author

Looking for an author whose sessions are chatty and upbeat? Packed with tips, anecdotes and inspiration to do with reading, writing and often life in general? Karen McCombie can offer all of that, presenting online talks to primary and secondary aged students (8-12), with time built in for Q&As. (She apologises in advance for the puppy or the cat wandering into view…)

Online Introduction

60-MINUTE ‘MEET THE AUTHOR’ SESSION:

• A first chapter PDF of one of Karen’s books can be sent in advance of the online talk.
• A short video clip can be sent to the school in advance, trailing the visit to students.
• Karen gives students a ‘behind-the-scenes’ glimpse of what it’s really like to be an author, eg the unexpected places where inspiration lurks, and what authors do when they get stuck for ideas. Karen aims to enthuse students, especially less confident readers and writers. (Approx. 45 minutes.)
• Short reading
• Q&As with the students (approx. 15 mins).

CHANCE FOR STUDENTS TO BUY SIGNED BOOKS
Karen works with her local indie bookshop who will send schools info about how students can buy a personally signed book, which can be delivered anywhere in the country.
(If schools want to support their own, local bookshop, Karen can arrange to send personally signed bookplates to that shop.)

Examples of my online work

Testimonials

“Karen had the students spellbound with her engaging talk about becoming a writer. Her virtual visit was an absolute treat for our students in lockdown and many of them returned to school brandishing new notebooks for story writing and asking teachers to read their own short stories. Karen was an inspiration.”
The Elton High School, Bury

“Thank you so much for your back-to-back virtual talks! Amazing – your warmth, energy and enthusiasm really shone through…”
Malvern St James School, Worcestershire

“We were so fortunate to be the recipient of a virtual author visit from the charismatic Karen McCombie in celebration of our World Book Day event. Karen’s presentation to the girls was engaging, inspiring and entertaining and many of the girls commented on how much they enjoyed listening to her anecdotes and, furthermore, how her presentation has not only encouraged them to read but also to write.  On behalf of all of the girls at Sacred Heart of Mary Girls’ School, thank you, Karen, for your sage words of advice and your warmth, wit and wealth of advice.”
Sacred Heart of Mary School, Upminster

“A huge thank you for your wonderful virtual talk. I have received so many comments from staff, girls and parents about how brilliant you were. You were inspirational but in a very human, genuine and attainable way. I am actually in awe of your ability to turn life experiences into books – a true talent.”
Downe House School, Berkshire