"I recently had Layne Johnson visit my elementary school. He was wonderful with the children and brought so much fun and information to them about illustrating books. He explains what illustrators do in great detail. He takes the children through the stages of publishing a book and shows slides of the many books he has published. The kids were quite impressed!

Then, in a humorous manner he gently educates children about the basics of drawing faces. He uses practical examples that the students can immediately apply on their own papers. I have zero talent when it comes to drawing, but even I walked away from the lesson, feeling like I really could illustrate! Mr. Johnson is a true professional who relates easily to the kids and understands how to educate in a fun and joyful way. He would be a blessing to any school!"

     Vanessa Albright
     Librarian
     College Station, Texas

"We enjoyed your presence with us last month here in Fredericksburg. Your program was great, and the kids' drawings were amazing! I'm sure that the art teacher is very excited about the children's advancements in their drawing skills. It just takes someone special to help them learn that they can do it, and then, the sky is the limit!

"Here are the pictures I promised you. You made the front page of our local paper... Have a great spring! It was a pleasure meeting you. Take care and God bless."

     Maureen S.
     Fredericksburg, Texas

"My daughter, Samantha, was thrilled to meet you during your visit to her 1st grade class at Fredericksburg Elementary.

"She is a lover of art — actually it is her passion. Meeting you and having your book inspired her to come home and paint this. She wanted you to have it."

     Deborah K.
     Fredericksburg, Texas

"I just wanted to thank you for the fabulous visit you shared with the 5th graders at Hancock Elementary. I have heard many positive stories from students and staff members alike. I appreciate your flexibility as I understand there were a few "power surges" etc. throughout the afternoon.

"I know that my students were able to gain a new perspective on the picture books they often overlook. This, I feel, is a wonderful gift to give them before they leave for junior high.

"I'm looking forward to working with you again in the future. In fact, I'm already considering a date for next school year."

     Heather J.
     Houston, Texas

"We, at Fredericksburg Elementary School, would like to express our gratitude to you for participating in the first annual Authors' Day Event at Fredericksburg Elementary School.

"Your presentation inspired our young audiences and their teachers as well. You and the authors provided the opportunity for our vision to become a reality. We felt honored to have you here.

"On behalf of he students, faculty, staff and parents of Fredericksburg Elementary, thank you again."

     Mary Jo Brooker, Principal
     Sherrill Durham, Assistant Principal
     Fredericksburg Elementary School

"You Rock Layne!"

     Ashton C.
     4th Grade

"My name is Wade S. You came and visited my school and I really liked it. I went on your web site and wanted you to illustrate the book I'm writing... I am 9 years old and in the 3rd grade. I am really interested in football and writing... Your books are inspiring... Kathryn is my mom I don't have e-mail myself. My dad's name is Travis. They like your pictures too. I hope you can come back to my school soon...

"Your new friend,"

     Wade
     3rd Grade

Writer's and Illustrators Conferences

"Speakers were great. I particularly enjoyed Layne Johnson."

"Visual presentation very entertaining."

"Wonderful! Layne was AWESOME!"

"Layne: great perspective"

"Layne's presentation was excellent: succinct but clever and meaningful."