School Visits

Matt Brough regularly visits schools to encourage reading, sharing his own journey from being a kid who didn’t like reading to eventually becoming an author.

Matt does in-person visits in Winnipeg and surrounding area and will do virtual visits too.

Contact Matt by email (matt@mattbrough.com) if you are interested in him visiting your school.

Why the Del Ryder Series is great for Schools

  • Perhaps the best reason is that kids love it. The characters are relatable and the story is fast-paced, a real page-turner.
  • The books deal with a number of different themes that parents and teachers love: forgiveness, compassion, loyalty, kindness, discovering your talents, and overcoming struggles.
  • There is a sense of wonder in the story. The characters learn to slow down and appreciate the world around them.
  • You are in good hands with the author. Matthew Brough originally wrote this story for his daughter, Juliet. He started the book one when she was five and completed the series the year she turned thirteen. Juliet helped with story ideas for book 3 and helped edit book 4.

A Note from Matt About Visits in Public Schools

Some school administrators, teachers, or librarians may wonder what I talk about in school visits given that I am a pastor. The whole focus of my talks are on the importance of reading, creativity, and the process of writing.

I don’t talk about religion and I am not there to promote any particular viewpoint. I am personally completely supportive of the public school system and believe strongly in the inclusion of and respect for people of all faiths, cultures, ethnicities, genders, and sexualities. My aim is to focus on the joy of the imagination and to encourage kids to read and explore their creative expression.

You may also wonder about the content of the books. Yes, there are themes in the books that connect to a religious worldview but they are not overt. There is no attempt to moralize or preach. The Del Ryder series sets out to simply tell a great adventure story. The Chronicles of Narnia is the best example of this being done. C.S. Lewis’ classic series has Christian imagery and themes but can certainly be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of reader’s background. The Del Ryder series is similar.

What Grade is Del Ryder Best For?

Grades 4 to 6 are the best age groups, since the main character, Del, is eleven years old. But be warned—many adults love these books. If you read it, you may get hooked!

Reader Reviews of Del Ryder and the Crystal Seed

“I’m 12, and I loved it! “

Very exciting tale about kids, friendship, lumens, villains, magic, and adventure. It’s a thrilling story about kids finding a piece of glass that leads them to a far-off land. They make new friends, and even enemies here. They’re not all on the same page at the end, but it just makes you want to read more in Del Ryder and the Rescue of Eleanor.

“Vibes of CS Lewis (Narnia) and Arthur Ransome (Swallows and Amazons)”

Brough has captured the curiosities, challenges, and courage of young teens in a way that carries you excitedly through the book, wondering what’s next for this band of friends who are discovering new dimensions of their emerging worlds.

— Brian

“Full of Wonder”

The book quickly pulls you into a world that is literally wonderful–full of wonder. The characters-human and other wise-all feel real from the moment you meet them. The book moves in important themes as part of the story but never at the story’s expense.

— Vernon

“A wonderful tale for the whole family.

Creative, accessible, exciting and rooted in genuine values without hitting you over the head. It will leave you wanting more.

— Jamie

“Read this book”

I actually turned off the tv so I could read this book instead.

— G

“Delightfully imaginative and a page turner”

I just wanted to get back to reading it every time I had to set it down. With a Narnia-esque time travel and another realm to explore, the story intrigued. Had me wondering what would happen next.

— Barbara

“Absolutely Brilliant Book“

So good. I could not put it down. Reminds me of Tamora Pierce’s circle of magic books. A great read for both boys and girls as well as adults!

— Erin

Matt Brough would be more than happy to do an author visit in your school or library. Email him to set something up. matt@mattbrough.com