In addition to giving bookstore signings and book club talks, I offer writing workshops and class visits for all levels–from elementary school to college students and adults.

While I’ve taught writing and oral communications at Roanoke College and University of Virginia, I love working with younger children and teens as well. In fact, I organized and led the WordSparks Writing Camp (combing hands-on art with creative writing exercises) for elementary school children and teens last summer at the Salem Museum. I have also offered Emily Dickinson & Me classes as a Poet-in-the-Schools at elementary schools for the Virginia Reads program.

I am able to discuss Standards of Learning topics about writing and oral communications (plot, characterization, story arc, revision techniques, poetic devices, presentation techniques, developing a thesis, etc.) — or lead a Q&A style discussion of life as a writer.

In addition to writing young adult literature (Dream Boy, with Madelyn Rosenberg, July 2014), I am the author of two award-winning books of poetry for adults (A Theory of Everything and If You Return Home with Food) and co-author of a local history (A Town by the Name of Salem). With my husband, I am writing a series of children’s early reader ebooks (Why Are Turtles So Crazy Awesome? and Why Is Ben Franklin So Crazy Awesome?, forthcoming). I work as a creative coach and freelance writer as well.

I love nothing more than sharing my enthusiasm for creative writing with others. To schedule a book club meeting, signing or school visit, please use the tab at top to contact me.

** I’m happy to set up visits via Skype for classes outside my region of Virginia.

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What people say about working with Mary on their writing

“It was a ridiculous amount of fun.”

“It helped me grow as a person.”

“She really cares. She made me feel welcomed and gave me the confidence to write.”

“I thought that I wouldn’t like poetry very much, and now I love it!”