Speaking Engagements and School Visits
I can come to your school, event, or place of worship in person or virtually, for a long or short visit.
To request an in person or virtual speaking engagement, please contact Author Out Loud, or view my Speaking Profile.
Here’s a spiel about why you should do that:
I am a teacher, so I know what makes a great school, shul, library, or classroom visit. (I’m also certified to teach math, so we can always do some light algebra if the mood strikes.)
I can lead a small classroom in discussion and activities, or present to hundreds in an auditorium. Either way, I’ll engage your audience with a visit that is both thought-provoking and humorous.
I can do visits, present lessons, or lead discussions focused on…
Cross-cultural and interfaith understanding
Bias / antisemitism
Jewish culture, identity, and religious bridge-building
Creativity / Finding your voice as a writer
Writing and publishing
Birdwatching (I’m both serious and not serious about this one. Like, I love birding, but I don’t know why anybody would want me to talk about it.)
“Isaac Blum's visit to our classroom was highly engaging. He shared a wealth of knowledge that demystified the writing and publishing process, inspiring our students to see themselves more clearly as writers. He offered great insight into the characters and ideas that made his novel so compelling, deepening our understanding and appreciation of the text. He was also funny and relatable, demonstrating an easy rapport with students that can only come with years of teaching experience.”
-Brad Gibson, Friends School Mullica Hill
“Isaac‘s presentation at our shul was a delight. He is a great writer and an engaging speaker — he strikes a good balance of information and humor when interacting with a group of both adults and kids. I’d love to have Isaac come and speak again.”
-Ben Haas, Jewish Children’s Folkshul
“My 7th and 8th grade students started the year and their exploration of identity by reading The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen. I am so grateful that Isaac was able to come speak to my students once we finished reading his book. Isaac brought humor, interesting discussion topics, and of course his expertise as an author to deepen the conversations we were having in the classroom. My students were incredibly engaged and interested to learn more about Isaac’s life, the characters, and his writing process. Thank you Isaac!”
-Jessica Griffith, YSC Academy
“We had the unique opportunity to have author and teacher, Isaac Blum, visit our 7th grade English Language Arts classes. During the visit, students were able to learn about Mr. Blum’s experience writing and publishing a book. Students were able to dive into the topic of the book, ask questions about Hoodie and the motivation behind writing such a timely, and needed, story. Mr. Blum led the students through his process and even provided a mini writing workshop. Students loved the chance to feel seen and heard as blossoming writers. The energy was palpable! Our only criticism is that we wish we had more time together!”
-Amanda Groen, Black Rock Middle School