About MeI write books for middle-grade/YA readers, and paint in the spaces in between.

I was a high school art teacher for nine years, and am now writing full + read more time from my home. Teaching gave me a lot of material to work with, and I am so grateful to my students for providing so many eavesdropping opportunities! Thanks, guys.

I love animals, the woods surrounding my home, quality ice cream, and yes...Marmite. Pretty sure it's a DNA thing.

One of the best things about writing for young readers, is talkng with them. I especially enjoy their varied and insightful questions. Kids are so honest and candid. I respect that!

My favourite question to date?

Student: "How old do you have to be to get a book published?"

Me: "You can be ten, or one-hundred-and-ten. It doesn't matter. A good story is a good story."

Student (looking thoughtful): "Hmmmmm. I see. Well...why did you wait until you were so old then?"

Out of the mouths of babes...







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My Work Speaker Info Contact Me

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You May Know Me For:

Literature Types
• Middle Grade Fiction
• YA Fiction

Published WorksHannah & the Spindle Whorl - 2010 (Ronsdale Press)

Hannah & the Salish Sea - 2013 (Ronsdale Press)

Hannah & the Wild Woods - 2015 (Ronsdale Press)

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Speaking InformationI enjoy speaking with groups of up to fifty children, especially after they have read one of my books.

Hannah & the Spindle Whorl, my first book, is + read more a story that explores Coast Salish history in the Cowichan Valley. It fits in beautifully with the BC grades 4/5 social studies curriculum.

My presentation runs one-hour in length, and begins with a lively slide show followed by a discussion about the writing process. Where do ideas come from? How can we develop them? How do we develop our characters? We will also talk about the publishing process from submission to book cover design, and learn tips for developing solid writing habits. We finish with a general Q & A and a few cool book prizes! Show Less

I Will Travel To:
• Gulf and Vancouver Islands

I Present to Age Groups:
• Grades 4-6
• Grades 7-8

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Testimonials"Carol Anne Shaw gave a presentation to our grade 8 class about her journey as a writer. Not only + read more was it humorous and informative, it was fascinating and inspiring, too, and left the students with new insights and solid ideas for further exploring creative writing. Thank you, Carol Anne!"

Hans-Peter Mothes, Teacher
Sunrise Waldorf School, Duncan, BC Show Less

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Awards and Recognition:HANNAH & THE SPINDLE WHORL:
- BOTYA 2010 Finalist in Young Adult Fiction Category
- + show more Shortlisted for a CHOCOLATE LILY AWARD 2011 - 2012 Award (novel category)
- Winner of a 2011 Silver Medal, MOONBEAM CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARDS (pre-teen fiction -historical/cultural)

HANNAH & THE SALISH SEA:
- Shortlisted for a 2014/2015 CHOCOLATE LILY AWARD - novel category
- "Best Books for Kids & Teens" Spring 2014 edition - The Canadian Children's Book Centre

HANNAH & THE WILD WOODS:
- Shortlisted for a CHOCOLATE LILY 2016-2017 Award (novel category) Show Less