With 10 published books and 15 years of experience as an elementary English Language Arts teacher across 3 continents, I relish connecting with readers, writers, and artists of all ages.

Sharing insights into the enchanting world of writing and illustrating is a particular delight of mine, as is celebrating and demystifying the creative process and all its twists and turns.

With experience presenting to large groups and leading small workshops, I can tailor presentations to meet your needs. From multiple sessions in a day to multi-day workshops, I’m passionate about developing particular themes or concepts aligned to specific interests and needs. Sessions can be organized for in-person or video visits.

Presentations

PRESENTATIONS include a book reading and Q&A session. Content and topics can be customized as needed. Presentations range from 25 to 40 minutes, based on audience age.

Presentation Topics:

  • How an idea becomes a book

  • The writing and editing process

  • Drawing demonstration

  • Show don’t tell in pictures and words

Workshops

WORKSHOPS are approximately one hour and include a 20-minute presentation with aligned student activity. Limited to 30 students for increased interaction, workshops are adaptable for different age groups.

Workshop Topics:

  • Brainstorming- No idea is a bad idea

  • Storyboard that story!

  • The semicolon will change your life!

  • Show don’t tell- the key to good fiction

  • Basic shapes for character design

  • Theme- what it is and how to use it

Visits can be in-person or via video link. If you are interested in arranging an event for your school, library, children’s museum, or bookstore, please email me at: tadghbentley@gmail.com, or use the form below.

“Every session Tadgh has had with my third grade students has been an absolute delight! When Tadgh is reading his stories, teaching techniques, and coaching students they are thoroughly engaged. He brings out their creativity and confidence. As soon as he leaves, they are already asking when he can return for another session.” 

April Louthain, 3rd Grade Teacher, East Elementary- Athens, Ohio

“One of the Grade 2 teachers extended your writing challenge, and the students were so engaged they didn’t want to stop! They were genuinely disappointed when it was time to move on.”

Terea Marcum, Librarian, Vientiane International School, Laos,

Get in touch!

“Not only is Tadgh an amazing artist, but he also is a fine teacher. Tadgh worked with us at The Ohio Craft Museum, putting on an art workshop aimed at students from 6th grade through high school. The kids had a blast creating their own paintings with Tadgh and the finished pieces were marvelous. We would gladly have Tadgh back to work with the museum again.” 

Judi Young, Art Education Coordinator, The Ohio Craft Museum