School visits by PJ Haarsma, author of The Softwire.

"The students and staff were mesmerized by his multi-media presentation. He not only educated the kids with amazing facts on our solar system, he motivated them to read. His introduction to the Softwire books had our middle school kids begging for more. Following his presentation, children all over the campus were reading his books and joining his interactive website. He helped our students find passion and fun in reading- and because of his personal touch through the school visit, our students will forever feel connected to PJ and his Softwire books. We cannot wait for books 3 & 4!"

Beth Duncan, 2008 Middle School Educator of the Year Region 9 for the state of California,
Top 10 Teachers of the Year for San Diego County 2008

<<< School visit video: Please allow a moment for it to stream.

Kids can discover the universe with PJ’s visual presentation of science, aliens and the stars beyond.

Using The Softwire, PJ ignites the students’ imagination with the possibilities and impossibilities of space travel. What will be required of us if we ever want to leave earth like JT and his friends did?

PJ shares his creative process with the children and encourages them to stretch their imagination to create their own stories about outer space. If you're interested in having PJ Haarsma visit your school click below for specific details.

For details on hosting an event click here | To email PJ with questions click here.

"I couldn't believe it. The kids were reading The Softwire at recess! The whole school was talking about your presentation for days. Well done!"
Angie Fortunato, Elementary Teacher, Kateri Tekakwitha School - Markham, ON

"Even my most reluctant readers waited eagerly for the next chapter of The Softwire. It's really nice to have something that boys want to read."
Michelle Liske, Elementary teacher, Durham Region School Board

"A big thank you for the awesome presentation...the kids are still talking about it!! Many are now reading your book and loving it.. "
Carrie Baran - Librarian - Laurentian Public School

"PJ Haarsma's visit to my school was sensational! He was active, vibrant, and engaging! He had the kids put on an a skit for the movie version of his book, he showed awesome clips of The Softwire game, and even had a special surprise! After his visit my students were eager to read more, not only of his books, but of all kinds of literature! PJ is the Obi-Wan of guest speaking!"
Heather Woodward- Teacher - Dobson Montessori, Phoeniz,AZ

"Two groups of grade 5 to 8 students enthusiastically listened to and were spellbound by the stories of The Softwire as presented by PJ Haarsma. Students and teachers both commented as to how this was the best author visit they had ever experienced."
Terry Hrynyk Teacher-Librarian Glen Street P.S.Oshawa, ON

"PJ Haarsma's ability to connect with students is unique and brilliant. I have hosted PJ multiple times and I never tire of watching the students and the teachers react to his dynamic and fun presentation. From the moment he starts talking, they are all hooked. There have been countless parents and teachers who approached me days later to tell me their child or student is reading a book for the first time. I never tire of hearing that!"
Faith Hochhalter Children's Buyer Changing Hands Bookstore

"The interactive multimedia presentation for The Softwire involved the sharing of the interactive games, video of the Rings of Orbis aliens, acting by the students, review of science, wonderful storytelling by the author and a sealed metal case containing an alien artifact. Even the most cynical intermediate students became enslaved as they sat silent mesmerized by the science of space and possibilities of imagination. "
Colleen McCarthy
Teacher Librarian Kateri Tekakwitha CES, York Catholic District School Board.

"PJ captures any audience with his energy. He begins a presentation on Earth and everyone in the audience lands on Orbis with him. Students and teachers continue to ask questions long afterwards. Priceless reading motivation!"
Francine Bard, 8th grade reading teacher Mesa Jr. High, Mesa , AZ

"We loved having PJ Haarsma at Shepherd Junior High. PJ enthralled the
students and staff with his presentation on the universe and space. His educational message was delivered effectively through his multimedia and interactive format. The students received a science lesson and they didn’t even know it! Teachers raved about the presentation. His books fly off our shelves and there’s always a waiting list for them. PJ is the best!"
Melanie Callahan, teacher - Shepherd Junior High, Mesa, AZ

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