Probably the most enjoyable aspect of Sparky’s Adventures is bringing Sparky’s story directly to the kids, especially at the schools.  Author Rick Arruzza has had the pleasure of visiting numerous schools from coast to coast, performing book readings and conducting writing workshops, usually in individual classrooms but sometimes in auditoriums, too!  From Miami Beach to San Francisco to around Sparky’s hometown of Stamford, CT, kids have enjoyed learning about Sparky through the books and numerous question-and-answer sessions.  And the author has enjoyed it through all the great kids and wonderful teachers and school staff he has met.  

One of the most-asked questions by students is whether Sparky can visit their school. We have brought Sparky to schools near her home, and it has been a good experience for all involved.  Sparky is an enthusiastic dog, but very friendly.  She also has taken road trips to upstate New York, New Orleans and Miami, Fla.  However, when we go on trips that are too far to drive, such as San Francisco, it is difficult to bring Sparky with us.  Airline flights are not a good experience for dogs.  So, unfortunately, some kids are not able to see Sparky in person, but we do show a video that at least gives those students a glimpse of what Sparky is really like.  Also, if schools do not allow dogs to visit, we can bring Speedy the tortoise and Maggie the bunny with us (they are characters in the Sparky books), although they do not go on long road trips, such as upstate New York.  

For more information on school visits, please click the Overview of Author Visits link at the top of this page.  If your school is interested in having Rick Arruzza visit to conduct a book reading or workshop, just click the Contact Us link to the left.