Susan Friedland is a former teacher/author/horse fan available for school visits, author talks, signings and virtual presentations. Book a spectacular and engaging author visit for your group today.
Inspire Young Readers with an In-Person Author Meet and Greet!
Are you looking to bring books to life in your classroom, library or homeschool program? Susan, whose favorite pair of socks state "7th grader for life," is an author offering interactive school visits designed to spark curiosity and a love of reading.
Available for in-person or virtual school visits
Perfect for grades 1-8
Customizable presentations for classrooms, libraries, or assemblies

Meet Susan
Susan Friedland, a 22-year middle school teaching veteran, exudes a contagious passion for primary sources, history, reading and writing. She is a seasoned pro at "reading a room" to keep the attention of young, squirmy readers and can launch into a tangential story at any moment to elicit interest in her content. Susan is the author of several books, including.
- Marguerite, Misty and Me: The True Story of a Famous Author, Her Celebrity Pony and a Fangirl Turned History Detective
- Marguerite, Misty and Me is a Julie and Julia-esque memoir in which Susan travels 8,000 miles and spends two years uncovering the life story and writing practices of beloved Newbery author and horsewoman from Illinois, Marguerite Henry.
- Misty's First Christmas (a historical fiction novella)
- Unbridled Creativity: 101 Writing Exercises for Horse Lovers
Testimonials
What a joy it was to have Susan visit our 3rd grade classroom! My students loved learning more about her books, her passion and process for writing, and the world of Marguerite Henry, Misty, and the ponies of Chincoteague Island. She answered our questions with warmth and authenticity, encouraging students to continue to foster their love for learning and books. We’re so grateful for her visit!
Sarah Anderson, Third Grade Teacher
Wasco Elementary, Wasco, IL
The day of our virtual meeting, the students listened to Susan read part of the first chapter of Marguerite, Misty, and Me aloud. The class then asked Susan questions about the book, being an author, and her inspiration to read and write books. Susan was so down to earth with my students, answering each question honestly. She shared several stories about her growing up, being a teacher, and traveling the US gathering information for her book.
My students were amazed and delighted by the stories she shared! I would highly recommend setting up a virtual author visit for your students with Susan Friedland.
My sixth graders rated our experience a 10/10!
Amy Carboni, 6th Grade ELA
Putnam County Junior High, McNabb, IL
Author School Visit Program Lineup
- Get to Know an Author
- Research Rocks!
- Ask an Author Anything
- Behind the Book: Untold Stories of Author Adventures
- Pony Parties and Primary Sources: Marguerite Henry’s Writing Secrets
Interested in bringing Susan to your school? Let’s make it easy!


