We also discuss Sparky’s background; her ties to Adopt-A-Dog (the animal rescue agency that saved her); a person’s value to the community and making a difference; and how everyone possesses a special talent. In addition, we try to provide insights on the writing process and how a book gets published. We usually end the session with a question-and-answer session, during which time the students can ask questions about the book or writing in general. If we have time, the students also can talk about their pets.

We also can read “El Paseo de Sparky” “No Descanso Para Sparky,” and "Sparky de Costa a Costa." Sometimes, we graciously ask someone at the school to fill in, since the author’s Spanish-speaking skills are a bit shaky. Or a student can help the author read the Spanish-language book, which is always fun for the kids when the author’s Spanish gets all tangled up. Unfortunately, we do not have 20 x 20 oversized versions of the Spanish-language books, but we can use the oversized English-language version of the book simultaneously so the kids can see the pictures as we read the story.

Duration: The presentation usually takes about 45 minutes, but we also can do a hurried version in about 30 minutes.

Age Range: Preschool to fifth grade. Although the fourth and fifth graders are at the upper end of the reading range, they do ask great questions, especially if they have writing projects. They also are able to understand the perils and consequences facing animals in shelters. At the lower end of the range, the preschoolers and kindergarteners can get antsy at times, but I've found the topic of dogs and Sparky can hold their attention for quite a while.

Writing Workshops: Basically, we choose a situation for Sparky and then write an original Sparky Adventure line by line on the blackboard, with everyone in the class participating. The students’ imaginations are allowed to run wild, making for some interesting stories. Some classes have put together their Sparky story into book form, and some students even have been inspired to go home and write and illustrate their own Sparky story overnight.

How Schools Have Tied Sparky's Adventures Into Their Curriculum/Activities:

• Sparky writing contests, with the winners receiving copies of a Sparky book.

• Working closely with students’ writing projects, in which the students ask particular questions about the writing process and the author provides tips and encouragement to the young writers.

• Teaming up with a local animal rescue agency, in which $1 from the sale of each book at the school is donated to that animal agency instead of Adopt-A-Dog.

• Coordinating with a school’s Book Sale or Book Fair, with the author holding a book-signing session at the Book Sale/Book Fair.

Free Giveaways: Each student attending the book reading will receive a Sparky bookmark, collector's card or sticker. Each participating class will receive an autographed copy of one of Sparky's books, wherever possible. If the school would like to purchase a copy of the book (or more!) for their library or other classes, that is always appreciated.

Book Presales: Some schools have conducted presales of the Sparky books. I usually provide a few books for the school, and they are read in the classes so the children can become familiar with Sparky. I also provide the school with flyers explaining my upcoming visit and order forms for the books, which are then sent home with the children. I bring the books with me and sign them individually to each student who has placed an order. In addition, $1 from each book sale is donated to Adopt-A-Dog, except in the New York City, Miami and San Francisco areas. In New York City, $1 is donated to New York City Animal Care and Control. In the Miami area, $1 is donated to Pet Rescue, and in San Francisco, $1 is donated to Pets Unlimited. However, let me emphasize that although a book presale is a welcome gesture, it is not a prerequisite for my visit.

Sparky/Speedy/Maggie Visits: If the school allows, Sparky loves to come along to see the kids. I usually just let her off the leash in the room (with the door closed, so she doesn't go wandering the halls), and she roams around the room while I do the book reading. She does a few small tricks, such as shaking hands. However, if the school does not allow dogs, I can also bring along Speedy the tortoise or Maggie the bunny. They are both characters in the Sparky books. Maggie stays in her cage, while Speedy can roam around the room. And although Speedy is a tortoise, she actually is quite speedy.

Web Site: If schools have access to computers, the students can visit www.sparkyswalk.com to become more familiar with Sparky and her story. There also are games to play, Sparky's Photo Album, and pictures to print out and color. Students can check the Events page to see when Sparky's Adventures will be coming to their school and send Sparky or the author a message in the Kid's Page. Sparky and the author respond to all inquiries on the Message Board.

What We Charge: Nothing, nada, zip. We just enjoy bringing the book directly to the kids and promoting reading and writing, and maybe we'll get a few book sales out of it and raise awareness of animal rescue agencies.