Patsy Smith Roberts has visited thousands of children around Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.  There is no speaking fee for Patsy Smith Roberts to present her books to schools.  She usually presents to Pre- K through third graders. However, experience has shown that many fourth and fifth graders view the presentation from an author/illustrator standpoint and the mechanics of how to put a book together. 

The presentation is filled with numerous photographs of her famous African wildlife and Botswana village children.  It is a rich cultural experience as Smith Roberts explains to the children how their counterparts in Africa live. 

She brings to life the excitement of a safari with exotic accessories such as a lion’s claw, porcupine quills, and an elephant hair bracelet.  The hair comes from the end of the tail which Africans believe brings them good luck.  One may also see a necklace made by the bushman of the Kalahari Desert to an Ostrich egg or a warthog tusk, just to name a few.  The children love being able to touch these African items and are always full of questions.

The presentation lasts about 20 minutes.  Past experience has shown that children can have a more intimate experience when there are less than 100 per presentation.  This enables them to ask questions at the end and have a better overall experience. 

Reflecting on her numerous presentations over the years, Patsy Smith Roberts commented, “I have been so shocked at the response from children.  The teachers usually have to drag them out as they are still asking questions at the end of the presentation while other classes are waiting to come into the presentation!”

Forms are sent out to parents advising them about her talk.  Schools will receive a special discounted rate on the purchase of her books.

Patsy Smith Roberts is also available to talk to private associations and organizations.