"Jen Swann Downey is a compelling and engaging storyteller. I want to hear more stories about intellectual freedom fighters." -- Eti Berland, Head Librarian, Saul Silber Memorial Library
"Downey's  thought-provoking, energizing talk was the prefect opener for Kidlitcon 2016.  Her engaging speaking style kept the audience riveted, and set the stage for lively discussions." -- Charlotte Taylor, KidLitCon Organizer, Blogger at http://charlotteslibrary.blogspot.com​is
"Jen Swann Downey delivers an essential message about the importance of intellectual freedom and why it matters to everyone, including kids. Her books take children on a journey through time to meet people who create and preserve the words that are part of our history. Her interactive presentation lets kids express their thoughts and feelings about censorship and soon after they'll be lining up in the library to check out her books!" - Rebecca Flowers, school librarian at Walker Upper Elementary School, Charlottesville, VA

Club, Library, Festival & School Visits

I'm happy to talk with kids, teens, adults, pretend adults, or lop-eared rabbits about...

Intellectual Freedom & Censorship
​(And writing the Ninja Librarians books, of course)

During my time with kids/teens/lop-eared rabbits, I let "The Ninja Librarians" and their mission to protect books and writers launch us into a discussion about what we mean by "intellectual freedom" and "censorship".

I invite young participants to help me define some of the forms that censorship can take, and develop an understanding of the fears and beliefs that can encourage us to stifle ourselves or others.
​ 
Using imaginary and historical examples (and some impromptu acting!), we explore how the development of knowledge has been affected by  both intellectual curiosity and intellectual suppression. 

We finish by considering the special challenge and possible rewards of supporting the right to free expression for others even when those others are saying things we find stupid, repugnant, distressing, or even threatening.

Cost

--Virtual Skype Visits: Free to schools, libraries or book clubs
--Visits to book clubs that have purchased eight or more NINJA LIBRARIAN books: Free in the greater Charlottesville/Richmond area.
--Hour-long presentation + extra time for book-signing to school, club or library gathering (any size) in Charlottesville/Richmond Area:  $200.  Outside of area: $200 plus travel/hotels as necessary.
Day in school/at event with up to three hour-long presentations in Virginia: $400
Day in school/at event with up to three hour-long presentations outside of Virginia: $400 plus travel/hotels as necessary

To organize an appearance, or to talk about situations I haven't yet thought of, contact me at jsdowney (@) protonmail.com

Thank you.
Read on. Speak up. Listen. Learn. And may your aim stay true!