Patricia J. Murphy is an award-winning children’s writer and author, and founder/chief creative officer of Pattycake Productions, a creative services agency. Patricia is the author of dozens of magazine articles, over 150 children’s books (e.g. board books, early readers, picture books, creative non-fiction titles, chapter books, middle grade novels, poetry) and a growing list of scripts for children's television.

When she's not writing, you can find Patricia dabbling in acting and other creative outlets. She lives in the Northern Suburbs of IL.

Workshops
Patricia offers a variety of writing workshops for children ages: 4-12. (She'll also talk to BIG people, too!) Her interactive, hands-on workshops include:

Where, Oh, Where Do I Get Writing Ideas?
Learn the hows, ways, and whys to find great ideas for stories, non-fiction, and poetry—and what to do with them when you’ve got them!

Writing Creative Non-Fiction
Truth is better than fiction--and a whole lot of fun to write. Find out how to research, write, and use fiction-writing techniques to make your non-fiction writing jump off the page.

Writing What You Know...and What You Don't
Use your own life and what YOU KNOW to write fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Then, become an expert on most anything (through research, primary resources, interviewing, first-hand experience, etc.) so you can write about that, too!

Writing All Summer Long
How can you keep writing all summer long? How can you NOT with a list of sure-fire ways to write through the lazy days of summer? (Can be tailored to vacations, too!)

Just for YOU
Customized writing workshops are also available to suit your individual groups’ needs, interests, etc.

School Visits and Author Appearances
Throughout the school year, Patricia happily visits elementary schools, middle schools, junior highs, libraries, and bookstores.

Fees: Based on number of workshops, assemblies, book signings plus travel expenses, etc. To schedule an author's visit for grades K-3, 4-5, 6-8, please email Patricia.