Speaking & School Visits
Phillip D. Cortez is an International Latino Book Award-winning author from El Paso, Texas. He brings the border, migration, and family into classrooms, libraries, and conference rooms, with stories that make audiences feel seen and give them language for their own.
Talks
Each talk can run as a keynote, a school assembly, or a workshop, and each is shaped to the audience in the room.
For elementary schools, libraries, and family literacy nights
A read-aloud and conversation built around Phillip's award-winning picture book about a migrant child's journey and the love that crosses every border.
Students leave able to talk about separation, belonging, and family, and many recognize their own stories in the book.
For middle and high schools, educators, and community groups
Why owning your narrative changes everything, especially for students who rarely see their families, their language, or their neighborhoods in books. Phillip shares how he went from a kid making up stories to get out of trouble to a published author.
Participants leave with a simple method for finding and telling one true story of their own.
For conferences, literary festivals, bookseller events, and panels
What it takes to write honestly about immigration and home without flattening the people who live it. Drawn from Phillip's picture books and his forthcoming fiction and essays set in El Paso.
Audiences leave with a sharper sense of who gets to tell border stories and how those stories reach readers.
Also available: #TheHappyManifesto, Phillip's three rules for happier students, as a school assembly or educator session.
Formats
Assemblies grouped by grade, plus optional classroom sessions and a book signing. A full day or half day.
30 to 60 minutes for conferences, educator in-service days, and community events, with Q&A.
For bookseller gatherings, literary festivals, and publishing events.
A live video session for classrooms and libraries outside travel range.
Rates depend on format, length, and travel. Share your budget in the form below and you'll get a clear quote within 48 hours. Book sales can be arranged through your local independent bookstore.
Booking Inquiry
Tell Phillip about your audience and date. He responds to every inquiry within 48 hours.