These are three of Doug’s most popular presentations for schools.
EarthSongs, EarthStories
A program of songs and stories, laughter and painless learning, this presentation has been performed from coast to coast for tens of thousands of listeners of all ages. From a Native American legend of how mosquitoes came to be (complete with unexpected audience participation) to songs about frogs and fleas and the signs of rain, to the quiet pondering of our place in the universe, this program takes an audience on a gentle journey. Along the way Doug “transports his listeners back into the fabric of Nature” (1) and “reminds us of our unity with all of life.” (2) Doug’s most popular program for general school assemblies, (K-6) EarthSongs, EarthStories is also a perfect adjunct to any environmental education unit or event.
1 Des Moines Register; 2 Joseph Cornel, author of Sharing Nature with Children
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A Writer’s Path: Motivation, Perspiration, Inspiration
The path begins with a young boy who was the poorest reader in his class and who hated school. It winds through the woods and waters of the North, through a growing love affair with nature, and finally with books as well. Doug recounts particular authors and experiences that had a profound effect on his life and career, and describes the long and difficult journey towards becoming a published author. As with any good journey there are highs and lows, doubts to overcome and dreams to realize. An excellent presentation for reading, writing, and literacy programs, for teachers and students alike. Questions from an audience or class are always encouraged.
The program is designed to empower students and teachers to pursue their own dreams and goals, including writing, and to emphasize the power and importance of reading.
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Miss Little’s Gift: A Poor Reader’s Story
This inspirational program is based on Doug’s book recognized by the Smithsonian Institute. Douglas was the worst reader in his class, contending with ADHD and dyslexia before anyone knew what those were. But he was lucky to have a special teacher who gave him the gift of books. Decades later, Miss Little is still giving, touching lives through Doug’s books and programs. Motivation for students and teachers alike, this message is about not giving up, overcoming challenges, and the vital importance of reading.
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School Visit Resources (click to download)
Doug’s school visit brochure. (PDF)
Tips for a successful school visit (PDF). (Everything you need to know to prepare for a visit from Doug.)
School visit book order form (PDF). Please contact Doug if you need further information about how to order books for your school event.
Poster for school visits: 8½ x 11″. Customize this poster with your school’s name at the top
What people are saying about Douglas Wood (PDF).
The Earth Is A Spaceship-words (PDF)
The Earth Is A Spaceship-music (PDF)
Testimonials
Thank you again for sharing your many gifts with a Selim Center audience this week. I am so grateful. I have several pages of nice things that people had to say about your presentation. On this very cold day, I thought your heart might be warmed by hearing some of them.
“A living room chat…way better than a lecture!!! Hope to see more of these with other people…”
“Douglas Wood is incredible in so many ways. I appreciated his approach to this session. Storytelling, reading from his books, personal anecdotes and words of wisdom from his life experience made for a rich learning experience. I received a great treasure that has profoundly affected my thinking. Thank to you Mr. Wood for sharing your wisdom and to the Selim Center for hosting the event.”
“Love the idea of bringing Doug back with his Wild Spirit Band for another ‘session.’”
“The event was excellent. Loved the pace of the presentation.”
“The presentation was excellent in that it met my expectations. Douglas Wood is living his love of the natural world, and it came through in his story-telling.”
“I loved the focus on nature and writing. I would have loved to hear Doug sing. Nature—combined with writing, sketching, and singing would be topics I’d sign up for again! Thank you!”
“Listening to him read about his grandfather was so moving as you felt his emotional connection. Hopefully you can bring him back again. Enjoying the sessions on nature. As always, many thanks for all your efforts.”
“I have enjoyed Doug’s books and music for years. It was a treat, this morning, to hear his stories and presentations…though I’d much prefer to hear them with a roaring campfire and a lake nearby.”
“Today’s event was excellent, pure joy. I have several of Mr. Wood’s books and give them to my tree-hugging friends. After the talk I went on line and purchased Old Turtle. I hope we get to hear from Mr. Wood again. Or better still see him in person when this nightmare is over. A wonderful presentation.”
“I enjoyed this visit with the author. It felt like I was visiting him in his surroundings with others helping ask great questions. It was way better than a lecture. Having him read his books to us was an extra special treat!!! The who situation worked incredibly well on zoom as it was set up.”
“What a treat you gave me this morning with Mr. Wood’s presentation. I will be finding my copy of Old Turtle and rereading it later on today. His conversation with us was so interesting that the time flew by. Thank you so much.”
“This program is another excellent one in the series. I loved it. I plan to buy the books, read them first, and then give them to my great nephews and nieces. Thanks for a great program.”
“Loved the new book and hope it will be published in the US someday!”
“Very interesting man with a sensitive heart.”
“The conversation with Mr. Wood was excellent. Wisdom and food for the soul. Please bring him back—with his music, too.”