Vikki VanSickle is the author of the acclaimed Clarissa books, including Words that Start with B, Love Is a Four-Letter Word and Days that End in Y. Vikki’s most recent middle grade novel, Summer Days, Starry Nights, has been called “Summer reading at its best” and is a finalist for the 2015 Red Maple Award. After obtaining an MA in Children’s Literature from UBC, Vikki’s career began in bookselling at The Flying Dragon Bookshop, which earned her the 2011 CBA Young Bookseller of the Year award. She is a popular children’s lit blogger and is frequently called upon to speak about kids’ books for radio panels, conferences, and as Lainey Gossip’s YA mentor! Currently she balances writing with her duties as the Marketing and Publicity Manager for Young Readers at Penguin Canada.

Festival Books

If I Had a Gryphon (Pre-K to Gr. 2)

Sam just got a hamster for a pet. But the hamster is kind of boring … he just eats and sleeps and gets his shavings wet. Inspired by her book of mythological creatures, Sam longs for a more exciting pet. If I Had a Gryphon is a raucous rhyming read-aloud about fantastical beasts in everyday situations–and the increasingly beleaguered heroine who has to deal with them.

Summer Days, Starry Nights (Gr. 5 to 9)

A famous rock star, a family secret and a boy with a great smile make for one unforgettable summer. With the same humour and insight that she brought to the acclaimed Words That Start With B, Vikki VanSickle expertly captures those lazy, hazy, crazy days of the last summer before high school. Though set in a different time, Summer Days, Starry Nights is sure to resonate with all young readers on the verge of adolescence. Commended, Best Books for Kids and Teens, Canadian Children’s Book Centre, 2013.

Other Books

Days That End in Y (Pre-K+)

Clarissa tries to find her happily-ever-after in this clever, heartfelt follow-up to Love Is a Four-Letter Word! Commended by Best Books for Kids and Teens and Canadian Children’s Book Centre 2013.

About Vikki VanSickle’s Appearance at Wordfest 2016

Vikki VanSickle is an engaging presenter that can adapt her programming content and style to your requirements. She is also happy to guide your students through a writing workshop, or a discussion about the world of publishing for students considering writing and publishing as a career option. Fantastic with the little ones, she will also energise young teens and young adults. Please contact Wordfest Youth at youth@wordfest.com to discuss presentation themes and other requirements.

Download Teacher Information PDF