Video about the children's book, The Gift.  

I would love to come out to your school and share with your students the story about how Dillie the Deer became a house deer.  A heartwarming story of the profound bond between a deer named Dillie and the veterinarian who saved her life. 

In the summer of 2004 my friend, a veterinarian Melanie Butera was brought an ususual patient: a three-day-old, blind, dying fawn. Melanie doubted the deer would survive, but with the help of her husband Steve she miraculously nursed Dillie back to health. The tenacious deer quickly became a member of the family, running around the house with the dog, the cat, and the people, and enjoying all of the perks, including her own bedroom, plates of her favorite linguini, and swims in the family’s pool. Melanie and Steve gave Dillie a chance at life and when Melanie was diagnosed with cancer, the veterinarian who saved the life of a fawn is herself saved by the unconditional love of Dillie the deer.

This heartwarming book is filled with insights about the animal world and the powerful bond between humans and the non-human creatures who love them.

Grades K-4: The length of my presentations varies from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your schedule needs, the time allotted for interaction and Q&A, and on the attention span (i.e. age) and size of the group.

Grades 5-8:  I have a specific a/v presentation geared to this audience.

Preschools: I modify my presentations for preschools, and typically don’t utilize the a/v presentation. I do a short introduction, talk a little about how I became an artist, do a reading  and try a little Q&A. These are short, lively presentations. 

Adult Audiences: Groups of teachers, librarians and literary enthusiasts. 

Some things to Consider and some Requests:
To economize, I'm happy to be "shared" with a nearby school, whereby you can split the cost of my day rate and, if applicable, travel expenses.
I don't require a pre-sale of my book, but I'd be thrilled if you offer one!
It's nice if students are familiar with my book prior to my arrival. I think it makes it more fun for them.

Shout out to Ellen video about the owner of Dillie the Deer, Dr. Melanie Butera