Bring an Author to Your School or Library!

A visit with an author or illustrator is a wonderful way to connect children, and their families, with the magic of books and reading. Introducing kids to an author whose books they are familiar with really brings the writing process to life—an author or illustrator visit can inspire budding writers, encourage young artists, and remind students how important stories can be.

6 Tips for Planning a Great Event:

• Allow six months to a year to arrange a visit. See if the author has a website with contact information or ask their publisher to make the preliminary contact. Many authors are booked months in advance. You will be coordinating directly author or illustrator to organize travel, accommodations, an honorarium, and the event.

• Make sure the kids are familiar with the presenter’s titles. Have English classes do book projects. Art students can create their own illustrations. Brainstorm with kids to come up with questions to ask on the day of the event.

• A personally autographed book can be a treasured memento of an author visit. Ask the presenter which title(s) they will focus on so that you can be sure to have lots of copies on hand. Work with a bookseller to purchase books or contact our special sales department 1-800-221-7945 ext. 5445 for information on ordering books directly.

• Be sure to ask if the presenter will need any equipment to aid in their talk. Microphones will be helpful in large auditoriums. Many illustrators create a PowerPoint presentation to showcase their work.
  

• Carefully plan the day with the author or illustrator. It is important that all parties agree on the size and age of the groups of children at the event. Knowing this information in advance helps the presenter prepare a proper presentation.
  

• On the day of the event, assign an older student or a faulty member to escort the author throughout the day. Adequate breaks, meals, and beverages should be provided for the author’s comfort. As all teachers know, talking for hours at a time is hard work!
  

• We know authors who like to meet their young fans. Click here to meet some!