An author or illustrator visit works
best when children and teachers have come to know the books
for themselves. This includes reading some of the books beforehand,
working with the material in class, and preparing to listen
to the author/illustrator. If the children know the books, their
enthusiasm and curiosity will make for a wonderful visit.
 Up
to One Year Before the Visit
Two to Six Months
Before the Visit
One to
Two Months Before the Visit
On the Day of
the Visit
Up to One Year Before
the Author/Illustrator Visit
- Meet with other school administrators
and teachers (or with directors of your group) to discuss
possible dates and budget for the visit.
- Contact the author/illustrator to ask
about availability, fees, and requirements (lodging, transportation,
audiovisual equipment, table for booksigning, etc.).
- Prepare a written letter of agreement
to avoid any misunderstandings between the school and the
author/illustrator.
Two
to Six Months Before the Visit
- Arrange to have school library copies
of the books available for students and teachers to read
in class, at home, or both.
- Prepare lesson plans that touch on the
books' themes or stories. Arrange to have the author's or
illustrator's books available to sell at the event.
- Provide the author/illustrator with a
schedule of activities for the visit.
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One
to Two Months Before the Visit
- Prepare publicity and book order forms
for the children to take home to their parents.
- Arrange to provide any audiovisual equipment
the author/illustrator may need.
On
the Day of the Visit
- Arrange to have someone greet the author/illustrator,
escort him or her to the proper room(s), and provide payment
that day.
- Provide the author/illustrator with water
and schedule some breaks for snacks, lunch, and quiet.
- Stay in the room during the presentation
to supervise the children, giving the author/illustrator
the freedom to present.
- Don't forget to have fun and join in
the discussion!
For additional information on how to set
up a successful author/illustrator visit, read Terrific
Connections with Authors, Illustrators, and Storytellers:
Real Space and Virtual Links by Toni Buzzeo and Jane Kurtz,
or check Toni's web site www.tonibuzzeo.com.
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