"Let me tell you the story of a picture book, and how one day ~ it became real."

Dawn utilizes her theatrical background and experience in teaching when sharing her love of the arts and writing.  "She is enthusiastic and in-touch with her audience." 

Within a clear and sequential presentation, Dawn will take you from idea, to sketch and completion.  Her goal is to ignite the imagination and curiosity of her listeners, and to share the possibilities that artistic expression and creative writing can bring.   Dawn involves and engages her listeners with questions like, "How is this like YOUR town?" and "Why do you think I put that - there?" 

Dawn will share the "back-story" of a story-time creation, by sharing  before-and-after images from her books, and will even show you some images that never made it ~  emphasizing the value of an IDEA, EFFORT, and DEDICATION TO FINISH.

Age appropriate attention will be given to the importance of critique, Language Art concepts such as personification and alliteration, and Graphic Art magic.

...Be sure to ask Ms. Desjardins about how her dog gave her encouragement, and if she REALLY had a pet chicken when she was little!

"Ms. Desjardins interacted beautifully with each age group; the children reacted with interest, humor, laughter, admiration, and new ideas!" 
                 Teacher comment from Adler Park School, Libertyville, IL


     Dawn offers half, full-day, and Author-in-Residence programs. 
     Feel welcome to contact her for more information at: