Interactive Author Visits

Jammin' Geography-Caribbean Cruise
By: Kimberly M. Roberts       Illustrated by: Ellen Pitts
Kimberly M. Roberts served as an Artist-in-residence, teaching about the Caribbean and its music for many years prior to the publication of her book, Jammin' Geography-Caribbean Cruise.  As she visited school after school, she found that American children knew very little about the Caribbean, although it is a region that is geographically near the United States.  Either students knew absolutely nothing about the Caribbean or only knew passing knowledge of this culturally rich region being able to tell you it is a place of "palm trees", "pirates", and "islands."  Mrs. Roberts also noted the lack of resources available to age appropriately teach children about the Caribbean. Jammin' Geography-Caribbean Cruise was her answer to these educational issues.

What ages can participate in an Author Visit?

Author visits are appropriate for any elementary aged students; however, if you are only selecting a few grades for participation, please choose 2nd through 5th grade students.  They will benefit the most from this style of author visit.

How is a Jammin' Geography Author Visit different?

During her visit, Mrs. Roberts doesn't simply read her book and answer questions about it.  Cultural artifacts from Caribbean islands are passed around the room, as she explains each item and teaches about the Caribbean.  Your students will leave the session with a deeper knowledge of the Caribbean, its geography, and its culture.

How long are Author Visits?

Sessions are available as short as 20 minutes and can be as long as your school wishes, depending on the goals of your school. Typical sessions are 30-45 minutes.  The most common author visit option includes a morning educational school assembly performed by her professional Caribbean steel band, Pantasia and an afternoon of Author Visit sessions.

What type of book is Jammin' Geography?

Jammin' Geography-Caribbean Cruise is hardback and 48 pages with extras including a Caribbean map, island pronunciation guide, chart of Caribbean flags, learning activities and interesting Caribbean facts.  The story is in rhyme form with brightly colored, stylized illustrations. The book can be enjoyed by any age student and is also a perfect teaching guide for the classroom- there is even a section on arts integration and teaching activities.  Jammin' Geography-Caribbean Cruise is usually $20 plus tax, but students who purchase the book through a school-facilitated book sale can receive the book only $17 total (includes tax).  

How can my school receive a free copy of Jammin' Geography for our library?

Any school that helps facilitate a book sale will receive a free book for the school's library.  The school will be responsible for photocopying a flyer about the book sale (Mrs. Roberts will email this to you.) and then sending it home with each student participating in the visit. The school will also be responsible for collecting book sale money prior to Mrs. Roberts' arrival. Your school will receive a free copy regardless of the number of books sold (or not sold).  Each student purchasing a book will receive a signed and personalized copy.