School Visits combine the best of all my worlds: art, writing, books and education.  They are one of the most enjoyable and gratifying aspects of my career as a children’s author and illustrator.

I have a BA in creative writing and an education certification in language arts. I have been working with children in educational settings for over a decade. See what other teachers think of my children's programs.

You know what kids like and how to reach them. You have an understanding of children from the INSIDE/OUT! The kids came back and said, "AWESOME!" That about says it.

~Pat Figlio, First Grade Teacher

Sawmill School, Tewksbury

Excellent movie! It brought your whole process to life. The topics you discussed and the way you spoke was on their level. One of the best author visits I've seen.

~Third Grade Teacher

F.A. Desmares School, Flemington, NJ

Dar Hosta delivers an inspiring hands-on presentation of the process of writing and illustrating children's books. Students learn the technique of designing their own collages in a workshop atmosphere. Ms. Hosta cites examples of her own writing, paintings and self publishing. Dar Hosta's rapport with the audience ensures a successful program for students.

~Gail Bogan, Librarian

Sawmill School, Tewksbury, NJ

The kids couldn't stop talking about you and your presentation. I think this was the best author visit we have ever had at Mackay School.

~Jamie Menake, Fourth Grade Teacher

Mackay School, Tenafly, NJ

I love your enthusiasm! It is obvious that you love what you do. Your video was entertaining and informative, both for children and adults. Your presentation kept their attention, you involved them, and you were patient. I saw you at Tri-County and loved your presentation there, too!

~Jean Sheninger, First and Second Grade Looping Teacher, F.A. Desmares School, Flemington

You were very organized and gave wonderful examples of what good authors and illustrators do. You give a strong delivery of presenting how to integrate art, writing and technology.

~Christine Hyun, Second Grade Teacher

Mackay School, Tenafly, NJ

The slide presentation is so well done and explains things so well. Your bright and sunny smile and your positive upbeat personality engender enthusiasm. Your books are so beautiful and your work, in general, so inspired.

~Sharon M. Lukatch, First Grade Teacher

Lester D. Wilson School, Alexandria, NJ

I loved your interaction with the children ~ the respect you gave them, how you valued their answers and their art work. Your question and answer technique was tremendously effective and it guided them and engaged them in understanding.

~Linda Mills, First Grade Teacher

Community Park School, Princeton, NJ

Thanks so much for the wonderful stories! The kids are excited to write this year and they often want to start with a sentence in the middle of their paper and then work forwards and backwards from there!

~Laura Sandstedt, Unit B

Ridgeway Elementary, Columbia, MO

I felt like I met someone doing absolutely what she loved... You really shined!  The multi-media approach was engaging.

~Erik Guenst, Fourth Grade Teacher

Simon Butler School, Chalfont, PA

100% engagement for the kids, especially K-1 students! You used words on their level, had pictures to go with new words and explained new concepts.  I walked out of the program saying to my aide that I hope we have you again in the future!

~Michelle Daniel, First Grade Teacher

Simon Butler School, Chalfont, PA

You were probably the best author that came and probably the funniest. You taught me a lot about being an author, illustrator and a publisher.  I liked how you had the funny videos and pictures of your dogs.  Thank you so much for coming to my school.

~Kristen, Third Grade Student

Bell’s School, Deptford, NJ