School Visits
Why me?
Here are some of the reasons why I would be a great choice to speak to your students:
- A Governor General’s Literary Award Finalist: this is one of Canada’s most prestigious Literary awards for which my debut novel, Blood Like Magic, was nominated
- Published six novels, with more on the way: I have quite a few novels out in the world giving me a lot of experience in this industry and am still actively publishing meaning my experiences are up to date
- Big Five Publisher experience: most of my work has been published by Simon & Schuster, one of the largest publishing houses in the world, and I have also worked with other major publishing houses like Scholastic and Abrams
- Multiple starred reviews, junior library guild selects, an indie next pick title, and features on CTV and CBC: my stories have been given widespread critical recognition and while entertaining for teens also have enough depth for critical study in the classroom
- Canadiana: my young adult novels are all set in real places across Canada, adding an additional immersion for students
Presentation Types
Each presentation is a 45-minute powerpoint followed by a 15-minute Q&A with students. Please ask students to submit questions ahead of time in order to make the best use of the question period. There are multiple presentation types so you can select the one best suited for your students’ needs.
A Day, Month, and Year in the Life of an Author
I break down the life of an author including what I do on a daily, monthly, and yearly basis. This includes discussion about how I come up with new ideas, how I manage my time as a self-employed author, and behind-the-scenes of what being an author is like.
Publishing Myths Debunked
I talk about some of the myths around publishing and being an author to help students get a better understanding of the industry in a more fun and interactive way. This also includes some behind-the-scenes information about how I became a published author.
How to Write a Book (and actually finish it!)
This presentation is ideal for creative writing classes and clubs. I share helpful tips on how to generate book ideas and how to turn that idea into a story that you actually finish. I combine practical techniques and resources to help give students the tools they need to complete their first novel.
Book Club
If you choose to have your students read one of my books, I can do a presentation to help supplmement the discussion. I will chat about the process of writing the book, share my influences behind it, and more. NOTE: this presentation is not me running the book club discussion, it’s an addition to your class discussion
Good to Know Information
- Age Range
- My novels are rated for ages 14+
- Please visit the individual book pages for a list of content warnings
- Ideal for grades 9+ (or 7+ if you feel content is appropriate)
- Books will be available for purchase for in person visits with both cash and card. Class sets can also be arranged if requested ahead of time.
- In person locations: generally anywhere within an hour’s drive of Hamilton, Ontario
- Examples of sone major cities: Hamilton, Toronto, Brampton, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Vaughan, St. Catherines, Burlington, Brantford, Kitchner, Waterloo, Oakville, etc.
Book your visit today!
Reach out via email to schoolvisits@lisellesambury.ca to inquire about my rates and/or book a visit for your class. I am currently booking from Feb 2026 onward. Please do not use this email for solicitations unrelated to school visits. For any other matters, please reach out to via the “Contact” section.
