AUTHOR VISITS

I am always happy to present author talks and school visits, where I often highlight themes that include: diversity and representation in children’s literature; the importance of every child seeing themselves in a story; and why I believe that the end of racism starts on the bookshelf.

I have been very lucky to do many author visits around the UK where I have visited various schools, including: Junior Hove in Brighton; Bilton Junior School in Rugby; and Dartford Bridge Community (where I was incredibly honoured that they named one of their classes after me!) I have been lucky enough to be very active in West London (my local area) and have visited: Chepstow House School; Eaton House the Manor; Southbank International; and Thomas’s Kensington.

Whether it is World Book Day, or Refugee Week, I always do my utmost to create fun and relevant presentations for the children, taking them through my creative process in detail and my sources of inspiration - including the magnificent architecture of the ancient city of Damascus, where I grew up, and why I became an author and illustrator in the first place (and how).

I also include fun and engaging live drawings activities for the children, along with illustration tips and draw-along challenges that they can take home after sharing in front of the class if they want (this helps build confidence and public speaking skills) – a big hit!

My visit can also be virtual – I once spoke to over 9000 children across 200 schools in an event organised by the Norfolk Schools of Sanctuary all in one zoom session! I also have delivered virtual sessions with the National Literacy Trust and Scholastic Schools Live.

In addition to my author visits, I also host talks and lectures about several topics that I am passionate about; such as inclusivity and diversity in children’s books - with stimulating and engaging conversation on why it is important to read stories from different cultures from around the world. I love to talk about how to raise children’s awareness of social equality and social justice through books and stories, and what to think about when curating your children’s book libraries. These talks can be for parents, teachers, librarians and anyone who’s interested in the industry.

So far, I have been invited to talk about these topics on BBC, CNN, NHK, Radio Canada, and many other media outlets. I am proud to have featured on BBC 100 women masterclass ‘How to diversify your children’s book library’.

I have also been the Keynote speaker in several award ceremonies and events, including The Prize Giving Ceremony in Abbot’s Hill School, and The Big Translate Event. I was invited to speak at several international book fairs and conferences including the London Book Fair 2015, the Gothenburg Book Fair 2016, Bookseller conference 2018, the Arab Conference at Harvard University 2018, and Edinburgh International Book Festival 2023.

To book an school visit or author talk please email

info@nadinekaadan.com

Testimonials

  • Southbank International School

    “We're so happy we were able to invite Nadine Kaadan to visit us at Southbank. She is such a fascinating and engaging person. I was impressed by the delicate and empathetic way she approached difficult topics, and the warmth and sincerity with which she encouraged the children to ask questions and express themselves. Thank you Nadine!”

  • Eaton House The Manor

    “We absolutely loved having your visit. The presentations were well-pitched, inspiring and fun! It was brilliant for the girls to gain an insight into aspects of Syrian culture and to understand your journey to becoming such a successful author. You were the perfect choice for World Book Day!”

  • Reception and Year 1 Girls - Abbots Hill School

    “I loved looking at the photos of your home country and seeing how they became drawings in your book”

    “I liked how you used your cat as an inspiration for your story The Jasmine Sneeze”