Dina Anastasio

Why do writers write? What motivates them to sit down day after day and make up stories, dream up interesting characters, paint new settings while searching for just the right words? Teachers spend their days struggling to instill a love of writing in their students, and once in a while an author pays a visit that helps to reinforce all that hard work. When I visit a school I try to be that person.

A little about how I might help...


I live in New York City, but I'm willing to visit schools throughout the US.

My Presentations:
I write for children of all ages and vary my presentation according to age groups.

For young children: I was the editor of Sesame Street Magazine and love answering questions about Big Bird and Bert and Ernie. I've written several books of poetry for this age group and think it's great to help children play with ideas, images, words, and weird and funny rhymes.

For middle grades: I've written several books of mini-mysteries, as well as longer mysteries and novels. I've also published books of poems for this age group, about everything from feelings to math to sports to oceans.

I enjoy creating a class story, poem or mystery, concentrating on developing character, coming up with a sizzling plot and a fascinating setting, and encouraging group editing until we've hit upon the perfect visual words.

I've written several high interest/​low reading level books for ESL students and reluctant readers and appreciate the challenge of encouraging a love of reading in these students.