Amanda West Lewis
Workshops & Presentations
I offer readings, workshops and presentations for ages 8 - adult, both in-person and online. I also love coming to book clubs to talk about my books. Workshops and presentations are structured to serve the individual needs of each group. I also offer programs through MASC and Author's Booking Service. Please enquire about pricing and availability.
To infinity and beyond!
In this workshop, we’ll explore the solar system AND poetry. What is a poem? How do planetary scientists use metaphors to explore big ideas? With readings from A Planet is a Poem, we’ll look at different poetic forms and how they can be paired with meaning.
Making it Visual
A graphic novel is four dimensional. It works visually, over time, with a story. A graphic novel combines elements of writing, acting, directing, filming and set design. In this workshop, we'll open up ideas for how to think differently about your story and how to put it on the printed page.
​
This is a workshop for writers, so don't worry whether you can draw or not. You'll come out knowing how to create a story that someone else can illustrate!
Writing Workshop, Young Authors & Illustrator's Conference, MASC
With Kwame Alexander at Toronto International Writer's Festival
Writing from Memory
Memories are made of small moments. Working with memory moments from the novel These Are Not the Words, we'll discover new ideas to form a base for creating stories. Together, we’ll create a series of group poems that are both specific and personal. The workshop explores ways that our memories and dreams can spark ideas and springboard us into larger writing projects.
Conflict from Two Sides
In "Conflict from Both Sides," the focus is on an empathetic understanding of World War 2. Looking at the lives of British and German children, I'll explore true stories from a young person's perspective. Working with the novels September 17 and The Pact,we'll discuss propaganda, indoctrination, racism, and survival.
Experimenting with the Magic of "IF"
In theatre, you start with an empty space. A void. You hear a sound, or maybe a light comes on. Immediately the story has begun. What unfolds is an alchemy of language, movement, colour, light, sound, and purpose. In this workshop we’ll discover how working with your inner actor, designer, and director can inform your writing. We’ll fill the void of the blank page and watch as our story comes to life.
