The experience of having an author or illustrator visit your community may be one of the most worthwhile gifts you can offer a child. It brings to life the
magic of books and the joy of reading in a very special way. Research and careful preparation will stand you in good stead toward making that experience a successful one for all concerned.
The following tips will be helpful when planning an author or illustrator visit.
Involve the publisher early in the planning.
The publishing house contact will be able to provide you with useful guidance and information. You will obtain the most cooperation if the contact is with you from the start.
Keep your audience in mind.
Be clear about whether you want the author or illustrator to talk to an audience of young people (and what age range) or adults—this makes a big difference in how an artist would prepare material for the visit.
Know what your budget is
before approaching anyone. You are responsible for paying the artist's fee and related expenses for the visit. Be realistic about what you can afford and discuss it with the publisher up front to avoid disappointment.
Decide who you want to ask for a visit.
A well-known author or illustrator is often unavailable. Consider a new artist, whose availability is probably more plausible; perhaps even someone from your area—local talents are often eager and happy to participate in programs in their own or nearby communities.
Which publisher to contact
can sometimes be a puzzle, as many authors/illustrators have more than one publisher. Visit your local library or bookstore, or conduct an online search, to find the artist's most recent work. The publisher of that book is the one to approach.
Once you have done your research and made your choices, have a list in hand to follow when talking with publishers. Tell them:
- Who you want; give alternate(s) whenever possible.
- When you want the artist to appear (a good general rule is to plan six months ahead).
- How much of an honorarium you are prepared to pay and what other expenses you will cover. (Discuss travel arrangements and accommodations, as it is
possible your guest may have specific requirements that need to be taken into consideration.)
- Where the artist is going in the community (this is important when arranging tour schedules).
- What the artist is expected to do—lecture, sign books, perform—and what the make-up of the audience is—young children, teenagers, adults.
Do research at your local library
or bookstore regarding the artist's work. Then share it with members of your audience ahead of time so they'll be prepared for your guest. This will make for a more enriching educational experience for everyone concerned.
Give feedback to the publisher
on the outcome of the visit. Was it successful—why/why not? Publishers welcome this kind of information so they can plan better for future appearances. A good fit between artist and prospective audience makes for a more enjoyable visit.
The Publisher Contacts for Author and Illustrator Visits List
includes CBC-member publishers who have provided contact information for author and illustrator visits. Information provided includes publisher addresses, contact names or departments, telephone numbers, and/or email addresses. The list is available in two formats: