EVENTS
While my book and presentations are most suitable for grades 4-6, I am happy to tailor my presentation to the audience.
My presentations can include a behind-the-scenes of the writing process, life of an author, my journey to my autism diagnosis, as well as a reading and Q&A.
My current programming options for schools include:
Presentation on the creation of Maya Plays the Part (40 minutes)
A behind-the-scenes of the experiences that inspired the book and my journey to publication
Themes: writing/editing, Autism, theatre & performance
“Story Seeds” Workshop (30 minutes)
A generative workshop where students will use the thought exercise that helped me create Maya Plays the Part to create their own “story seeds”
Curriculum connection: Ontario ELA D1.2 Grades 4-6
For more information and current rates, please get in touch.
TESTIMONIALS
“On April 10, 2026, we were pleased to welcome author Calyssa Erb to Sprucecourt Public School for a full day with our students.
She began with a presentation in the gym, where she read from her book, Maya Plays the Part. The reading gave students a clear sense of her storytelling style, and they were especially interested in the sneak peek she shared from a work currently in progress. It was a great opportunity for students to see how ideas develop over time.
Following the reading, she took a wide range of thoughtful questions from students. They were eager to learn about her writing process, where her ideas come from, and what it takes to become an author. She answered each question with care, helping to create an open and engaging discussion.
After the assembly, she visited classrooms to lead writing workshops. These smaller sessions allowed students to participate more directly, try out their own ideas, and build confidence in their writing. Teachers noted how engaged students were and how well the workshops connected to ongoing classroom learning.
On behalf of our school community and parent council, thank you for spending the day with us. We appreciate the time and preparation that went into the visit and the positive impact it had on our students.”
—John Iorio, VP, Sprucecourt Public School, 2026
“Calyssa Erb’s reading of Maya Plays the Part was a highlight of this year’s Sprucecourt Book Fair. Calyssa opened the presentation by sharing that, like Maya, she is on the spectrum and asking the grade five students what they understood about autism. Being invited to talk with an autistic adult was a rare and rewarding experience for our group.
Autistic students said Maya Plays the Part was the first time they felt represented in a book. With slides of herself around the same age as the students holding her ‘first book,’ Calyssa made publishing a novel seem within reach. It is a testament to her talent as a storyteller and a presenter that Calyssa left everyone feeling ready to pursue their creative dreams.
We look forward to hosting Calyssa Erb again!”
—Chris Reed, Board Member, Parent Council, Sprucecourt Public School, 2025
TESTIMONIALS
“A group of our Hackmatack reader's choice award fiction readers were very excited to connect with Calyssa! Your visuals — photos of yourself as a child at your writing desk, at theatre camp and at the Halifax Public Gardens — and your connections to Halifax really heightened the interest and the connections for students. Asking questions of participants kept the session interactive. The information you shared about the writing and editing process and the persistence needed for multiple edits was surprising to some and useful for students to hear. Offering generous time at the end for questions also made this a truly memorable event. Thank you again!”
—Deborah Copeman, Hawthorn School, 2026
“Calyssa was a dream to have visit our library! She read from her book, answered audience questions and was happy to share her personal writing process and experience. We couldn't have enjoyed having her more and look forward to reading whatever she writes next!”
—Shannon O’Connor, Clinton Public Library, 2024
“Calyssa’s Q&A video was an inspiring and engaging experience for our Grade 6 students. Her warm and approachable attitude made the session really enjoyable and her passion for her characters and storytelling is very communicative. Calyssa’s insights into the writing process and her journey to becoming a writer have encouraged our learners to explore their own creativity with confidence. They loved the experience!”
—Amanda Casleton, Head of English, ICS Paris International School, 2025