Author visits

 

School Author Visits with Kentrell Martin

Bringing Stories, ASL, and Interactive Learning to Life

Transform your students’ literacy experience with an unforgettable school visit that combines storytelling, education, inclusion, and hands-on American Sign Language learning.

Award-winning author and educator Kentrell Martin brings the beloved Shelly’s Adventures series directly to schools through high-energy, interactive presentations designed to engage students while introducing them to ASL and Deaf culture in a fun and meaningful way.

Perfect for Pre-K through 5th grade students, each experience encourages participation, builds confidence, and creates lasting memories students continue talking about long after the visit ends.


What Makes Our Visits Special

Proven National Impact

  • Over 1,200 schools visited in the past 10 years
  • Reaching 130–150 schools annually
  • Presented in 20+ states and multiple countries
  • “Shelly Goes to the Zoo” – Picture Book of the Year Finalist
  • Trusted by schools, districts, libraries, museums, and educational organizations nationwide

Interactive Learning Experience

Students don’t just listen—they actively participate.

Each presentation includes:

  • Interactive storytelling
  • Hands-on ASL instruction
  • Engaging student participation
  • Silent signing demonstrations
  • Q&A sessions using sign language

During the experience, students can learn 70+ ASL signs, with many students mastering at least 30 signs by the end of the visit.

The presentation creates a unique opportunity for students to experience communication in a new way while learning about inclusion, empathy, and Deaf culture.


Educational Value

Shelly’s Adventures combines literacy and inclusion into one powerful educational experience.

Each visit:

  • Reinforces reading engagement and vocabulary development
  • Introduces students to American Sign Language
  • Supports diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
  • Encourages communication and confidence
  • Provides age-appropriate learning tailored to your students

Each Shelly’s Adventures book teaches 10 ASL signs, helping students continue practicing long after the visit is over.


Visit Format

Each presentation may include:

  • Interactive read-aloud from the Shelly’s Adventures series
  • ASL instruction and participation
  • Silent signing session
  • Student Q&A
  • Educational discussion about communication and inclusion

Presentation lengths are typically:

  • 30 minutes for younger students (Pre-K–1st)
  • 45 minutes for older students and large assemblies

Schools may choose single-grade presentations, assemblies, or multiple sessions depending on school size and scheduling needs.


What Educators Are Saying

"The students were completely engaged and are still using the signs they learned!”

“One of the most interactive and meaningful author visits we’ve hosted.”

“Students left excited about reading, learning ASL, and inclusion.”

See why educators, schools, and families across the country continue to support Shelly’s Adventures by visiting our Google Reviews page:

See more testimonials from educators

Book Your Visit

Dates for the upcoming school year are filling quickly.

Whether you’re interested in a traditional author visit or the SA Experience Fieldtrip/Fundraiser Program, we’d love to explore the best option for your school community.

Ready to schedule?

📧 booking@shellysadventures.com

Learn More

🌐 Shelly’s Adventures Official Website