Ambreen Butt-Hussain is the author of the middle-grade Alina Butt series, which consists of the books, The Unlovable Alina Butt and You’re Out of Luck, Alina Butt. Ambreen was born in Pakistan but lived in England and Scotland before finally settling in Canada for many years. She has a bachelor of science from the University of Toronto and a master of education from Queen’s University. She continues to move around and has recently made Princeton, New Jersey her new home, with her husband and two sons. She teaches middle schoolers by day and writes for them by night! Ambreen is currently working on the third part of her series.
An inspiring talk, motivating students to chase their dreams and achieve ANYTHING they want…with four simple steps! Students are engaged as they are introduced to realistic techniques for success, personal stories and anecdotes, as well as an insight into book writing and publishing. This presentation highlights the importance of resilience and hard work.
Turning Journaling Into Story Writing
A fun and interactive session about turning journaling into story writing. Ambreen will read a chapter from The Unlovable Alina Butt, revealing how the story was inspired by her own childhood experiences, of immigrating to a new country, being the new kid, trying to fit in with a funny last name. Students will be inspired to learn that her writing journey began when her dad gifted her her very first, pink, fluffy diary as a 9-year-old – which she started journaling in every single day. Participants will think of their funniest memory, and learn how to turn that into a riveting story. Students will use their experiences and imagination to come away with the beginnings of their story, in written or picture format.
Creating the New Kid
Join Ambreen for her “Creating the New Kid” workshop! Ambreen will read an excerpt from The Unlovable Alina Butt, introducing her main character, Alina, who is the new kid, starting her first day of school in a new country. Participants will create their very own “new kid” who is being introduced to the class. They will learn how to create a three-dimensional, relatable character by coming up with diverse physical features, a distinctive personality, past experiences, and finally give their character a unique name! Students will come away with a well-developed character, the “new kid” they have created, either in written or picture format.
An inspiring talk, motivating students to chase their dreams and achieve ANYTHING they want…with four simple steps! Students are engaged as they are introduced to realistic techniques for success, personal stories and anecdotes, as well as an insight into book writing and publishing. This presentation highlights the importance of resilience and hard work.
