School Presentations

Author, Peter Thomas and Illustrator, John Mahomet of the children’s book series “The Adventures of Billy Bee” have structured a school presentation designed to captivate both students and teachers. “Our goal is to ignite the desires of everyone present to tap into their own creative energy and how to transfer it onto paper. We want to show everyone in attendance, that with a good solid education they will have all the tools they need to explore their own world of personal adventures that lie inside and how to turn them into amazing stories that everyone will enjoy.

Mr Thomas discusses writing techniques with a student

Program Description:

The program has been designed to cover a wide variety of age groups – from kindergarten to eighth grade. Each presentation is specifically adapted to the grade levels in attendance. Please be aware the following information is given as a generalization of the assembly content.

The writing process and illustration procedures are covered in great detail. With a slide show presentation, students are shown how it all began with an idea written on a piece of scrap paper which was turned into an international book publishing company. The students are then “taken” on a tour of Mr. Thomas’s writing studio and shown the different stages involved in producing a manuscript. Topics discussed are: idea inspirations, journaling their ideas, the power of brainstorming, writing the first draft, plotting the story, character development, the powerful impact of good editing and revisions, fiction versus non-fiction, followed by technical choices. The difference between a copy write and trademark, inclusion in the Library of Congress and the important role education has in bringing it all together. We like to focus on the endless opportunities that now exist for aspiring new writers.

In the next segment of the presentation, Mr. Mahomet demonstrates the process he undergoes to take an idea and turn it into artwork. He emphasizes the importance good communication skills play with the transformation of these ideas. He discusses the new world of computer graphics and the effects it has had on the art world; he continues by exploring the different styles and media artists have to choose from. Next he reveals the techniques and procedures he has used throughout the years which have placed him high in the ranks of professional illustrators. Then on an 18″x24″ easel Mr. Mahomet demonstrates how to use basic shapes and form them into actual characters that come to life before their eyes. All original artwork is left with the assemblies.

The presentation concludes with an intense question and answer period that will stir the imagination and spark the enthusiasm of all in attendance.

Grade Levels – Kindergarten Through 8th Grade:

The presentation is appropriately adjusted.

Logistics and Costs:

The fee for our presentation is $1100. Up to three presentations will be provided by the author and the illustrator which will run approximately 60 minutes each. Travel expenses apply to schools beyond a 100-mile radius of Nashua, New Hampshire. This may include airfare and lodging or suitable arrangements. [Please note: This price is only available to schools who will participate in the sale of books, all others please call for quote.]

Incentives:

Costs are reduced if two or more schools are scheduled in the same area. Schools participating in the sale of books will further reduce their cost by receiving a commission of $1.00 for every book sold. All books will be personally autographed at the time of the presentation. Flyers will be supplied explaining the event and the sale of books. Two titles will be stocked at the presentation; “Colors of Love” and “Winning”. For a preview of the books, please refer to our http://billybee.net/products-page/

Books / Story Line:

Our books are 9×12inch hardcover, beautifully illustrated and packed with positive moral adventures. They have themes of friendship, trust, self confidence and love. They will be discounted to the school for 20% off retail and sold for $14.00 per book. Your school or PTO will receive $1.00 commission for every book sold.

PTA/PTO, Teachers and other Keynote Assemblies:

If the schedule permits and over 30 people are in attendance, Mr. Thomas and Mr. Mahomet will do a keynote speaking engagement free of charge. We realize the importance of parent involvement in the schools and we encourage parent participation whenever possible. This also allows us to give a condensed version of the presentation and the chance for questions and feedback from the parents.

Set Up and Materials:

No preliminary set up is required. We supply all the items and equipment. The only thing necessary is plenty of students, teachers and a place to put them all.

Testimonials


“Author, Peter Thomas along with illustrator John Mahomet of the Billy Bee series challenged us to focus on our ideas and strive to achieve our goals. His emphasis on the writing process reinforced our curriculum. Peter’s style and presentation captivated the students and held their attention. For days following our presentation, everyone was “buzzing” about Billy Bee. Prior to Peter’s visit, I had the opportunity to speak with him about the topics that he would be covering. His well organized approach and age appropriate topics put me at ease. True to his word, the presentation was exactly as I anticipated. Highly Recommended”

Peter Bonaccorsi / Principal / Milford Elementary School / Milford, NH


On behalf of our school community, I would like to thank you for your recent visit to our school. All of our children, kindergarten through fifth grade and their parents, were enthralled with your reading of Billy Bee’s Adventures. Your down to earth manner makes Billy Bee come alive for the youngsters. Your messages are positive and appropriate for all ages. Thank you for giving us part of your life and we look forward to seeing you again. We are true Beeeeelievers!

George Paul . . . Principal – Louise Davy Trahan, Tewksbury, Ma


Peter’s down-to-earth, sincere, ON TOP OF THE WORLD personality drew the children into every word he said. He took an enormous risk, followed his dream, and made his dream come true. One of my children said, “If he can do it, I can do it too!” Which was music to my ears. I’m always telling my students, if you can imagine it, if you can dream it, you can become it! You can say it to the children until you’re blue, but children and adults too often have to see, to believe. Peter Thomas gave all of us something to see and we BEELIEVED! He is truly inspiring!

Maura Walsh McPhee . . . 7th Grade Teacher – St Michael School


Peter Thomas engages children with a “down-to-earth” approach, his message to children echoes that of his books–they can be and do anything as long as they believe in themselves. With the assistance of his illustrator, they bring the creation of his Billy Bee series to life. Our 340 students in kindergarten through grade five enjoyed listening, seeing the books and asking very real questions–all of which were answered with good humor and candor.

“Highly Recommended”

Dr. Joyce Radiches, Principal-Liberty School, Braintree, MA


Dear Peter, thank you for making Catholic school week so special for the children. Billy Bee reflects the goodness and generosity of its creator and author. You are a wonderful role model of the values that we try to teach our children. Our world is indeed a better place because of people like you.

Sister Rita St.Onge . . . Principal – Assumption School

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