Patricia Polacco

Award-Winning Children's Author & Illustrator Known for "Thank You, Mr. Falker"; Dyslexia & Learning Disabilities Advocate

Travels From Travels From:
Union City, MI, USA
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Patricia Polacco Biography

Patricia Polacco is a recognized children's author, illustrator, and advocate for dyslexia and learning disabilities. Raised on her maternal grandmother's farm in Union City, Michigan, Polacco was profoundly influenced by Russian folklore and the rich storytelling tradition imparted by her grandparents. Her struggles with dyslexia, a condition diagnosed in junior high school, deeply impacted her educational experience. However, art provided a refuge, contributing to her eventual career path.

Polacco began her journey as a children's book author at the age of 41. After attending meetings with publishers in New York, all her books were successfully sold. To date, Polacco has written and illustrated over 115 books for children, including "Thank You, Mr. Falker," a narrative based on her personal experience overcoming reading difficulties with the help of a teacher. Other notable works encompass books such as "Mr. Lincoln's Way," "The Lemonade Club," "The Keeping Quilt," "Rechenka's Eggs," and "Chicken Sunday." Some narratives, like "Pink and Say," are inspired by real-life family history, reflecting the life of her great-great-grandfather who fought in the American Civil War.

Before her literary career, Polacco earned a Master's and PhD in Art History and worked as a restoration specialist in art museums. Her educational and professional experience has influenced her writing and made her a sought-after guest lecturer in many universities. She has received numerous honorary degrees in Arts and Letters and has gained international recognition as an advocate for children's rights. Polacco is a member of the National First Amendment Rights Coalition and is an outspoken critic of the No Child Left Behind Act.

In addition to her literary work and advocacy, Polacco has significantly contributed to peace and social justice, earning her a place in the Author's Hall of Fame. She has received several literary awards, including the Sydney Taylor Book Award and the International Reading Association Award. Beyond her books, Polacco has written articles about her work, been featured in interviews, and made public appearances at events such as the Santa Clara Reading Council and the Boston Area Educators for Social Responsibility.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 11/09/2024.

Patricia Polacco Videos

  • Patricia Polacco talks about her new book Mr. Wayne's Masterpiece
    In this inspiring true story, beloved artist Patricia Polacco conquers her fear of public speaking, allowing her to discover her remarkable voice. A...
  • Patricia Polacco: 2012 National Book Festival
    Patricia Polacco appears at the 2012 Library of Congress National Book Festival. For captions, transcript, and more information visit...
  • Patricia Polacco speaks to our Elementary students
    Picture book author and illustrator talks with our Elementary students on Feb. 14, 2011.

Patricia Polacco Books

  • Holes in the Sky
    Holes in the Sky
  • Remembering Vera
    Remembering Vera
  • Mr. Lincoln's Way
    Mr. Lincoln's Way
  • An A From Miss Keller
    An A From Miss Keller
  • Gifts of the Heart
    Gifts of the Heart
  • Bully
    Bully

Speaker Lists Featuring Patricia Polacco

FAQs on booking Patricia Polacco

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  • What topics does Patricia Polacco speak about?

    Patricia Polacco is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Anti-Bullying, Art, Authors, Belonging, Disability, Early Childhood Education, Education, Family & Parenting, Health, Literary, Mental Health, Neurodiversity, Women.
  • Where does Patricia Polacco travel from?

    Patricia Polacco generally travels from Union City, MI, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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Patricia Polacco is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics . The estimated speaking fee range to book Patricia Polacco for your event is $5,000 - $10,000. Patricia Polacco generally travels from Union City, MI, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Laura Numeroff, Lois Lowry, Erin Gruwell, Marc Brown and Rachel Renee Russell and Nikki Russell. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Patricia Polacco for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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