Three Secrets of Visual Storytelling
A crash course of the key concepts underpinning all types of visual storytelling, from cinema to stage but with an emphasis on comics, and the ways that words and pictures work together to tell a story. A key theme is the ways that our brains are wired to “read” pictures, body language, and abstraction. Demonstrated with an abundance of live drawing, the “Three Secrets of Visual Storytelling” is ideal for audiences of all ages, from grade school to grad school.

Round Earther: the Art of the Traveling Story
A talk about creative practice, travel, and the power of storytelling in everyday life, drawn from the author’s own experience in a rambling circumnavigation of the earth, making and sharing comics, art and stories along every mile as he retraced the steps of Nellie Bly, Phileas Fogg, and the great travelers of old. Suitable for all ages, but ideal for adults.

“Interview with Ben Hatke, Author and Artist of ‘MIGHTY JACK'”

“Fox Animation Picks Up Movie Rights to ‘Zita the Spacegirl’”

“Q&A With Ben Hatke on ‘Legends of Zita the Spacegirl'”

“Ben Hatke is one of only two authors we have invited back a second time for our Young Author’s Festival.  Ben’s energy, ability to connect with the students, and live drawings were a fantastic hit.  He knows how to hold students’ attention, presents really interesting and new material, and he was able to engage students from fourth grade to sixth in ways that made them enthusiastic about creating their own work.  We have been running the Young Authors Festival for over thirty years.  Ben is easily in our top five presenters of all time. ”
— William Boerman-Cornell, Ph.D., Professor of Education, Trinity Christian College

“Ben Hatke brought so much energy, kindness, and incredible talent to The Rockport Public Library. This special presentation was comic-centered — a way for kids to see his process for creating graphic novels and learn how to apply these ideas to their own stories. Mr. Hatke created a warm, welcoming, and delightfully engaging environment where every child left filled with excitement and inspiration to discover their own creativity. Months later, children, and librarians alike, are still raving over his wonderful visit to our small-town library.”
— Stephanie Curcione, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian, Rockport Public Library

“Ben Hatke’s visit clearly stands out as one of the most engaging and high-interest author visits for students we’ve ever had. He does an excellent job differentiating between the different grade levels to provide insight into his process no matter the age of the students. He draws during his presentation, and adds not just valuable insight but also humor into his presentations. Even a year later, we can barely keep his books on the library shelves. And in a time when some teachers or parents might be questioning the value of graphic novels, Ben Hatke reminds us all exactly why graphic novels are so powerful, beneficial, and crucial for students to become stronger readers. I cannot recommend him highly enough. ”
— Lori Redman, Loudoun County Public Schools, Newton-Lee Elementary School

“I will take any excuse to work with Ben Hatke! What a delight that an author whose books speak straight to my heart is such a kind and engaging presenter as well. If you’re lucky enough to have the opportunity to host him, do it! And don’t forget to have a drawing component as well—watching Ben at work is pure magic.”
— Leah Grover, Communication & Events Manager, Scrawl Books