Author Visits and Cartoon Workshops
Bring Some Mendel Magic To Your School, Library, or Community Center!
Terry LaBan, creator of Mendel the Mess-Up, offers fun, interactive programs for schools and libraries. Presentations blend storytelling, cartooning tips, lessons in self-acceptance, and the power of finding yourself in history.
During Terry LaBan's career as a professional cartoonist, he has drawn political cartoons for newspapers, worked in the comic book industry, created a daily, syndicated comic strip, and published a middle-grade graphic novel. His programs for kids, teens, and adults "draw" on those experiences to blend storytelling, cartooning tips, and good times — all while building critical thinking and creativity.
- Fun, age-appropriate workshops
- Cartooning lessons
- Stories from the world of comics and cartooning
- Discussions that spark ideas and curiosity
Terry offers several programs, which can be tailored to suit the needs of your unique audience.
GRAPHIC NOVEL PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION (45-90 minutes)
Terry presents an interactive digital slideshow about his career as a cartoonist and talks about how he created Mendel the Mess-Up. He also does some live drawing and leads a discussion on the book's themes, including self-acceptance, empathy, and finding yourself in history.
CARTOON WORKSHOP (1-2 hours)
Terry gives lessons on how to create comics and cartoons. Participants learn cartooning basics through hands-on demonstrations and fun exercises, and leave with new techniques and ideas to continue their work going forward.
MINI COMICS WORKSHOP (1-2 hours)
Participants learn how to create their own 8-page mini comics, using just a single sheet of 8.5"x 11" paper. Includes basic comic elements, character development and storytelling techniques. And, of course, a mini comic.
PRESENTATION SCALES
- Single Presentation Visit: One 45-60 min session. Additional travel rates/fees may apply to longer programs.
- Half-Day Visit: Two 45-60 min sessions or 3-hour workshop.
- Full Day Visit: Up to Four 45-60 min sessions between groups or 6-hour workshop.
- Full Day Visit With Overnight: In the event that your location’s driving time is in excess of two hours, or if the scheduled start time is an early morning event, overnight lodging may be necessary.
RATES AVAILABLE ON REQUEST
"For 90 minutes, Terry captivated everyone with his personal story and Mendel's journey. He then guided participants through drawing and sharing their own stories. The session was interactive, educational, and genuinely fun!"
Lisa Richman, Educational Director, Temple Beth Hillel-Bet