If you want to inspire children to write, to read, to create and to enjoy the amazing world of books, invite authors to your schools and libraries.
As a retired teacher and a children’s book author, I am lucky to share many WOW moments when I read to children. Here are a couple of “typical” thank you notes from a recent visit to a school in Oregon.
Dear Ellen,
You are so inspirational! I hope I become a story writer like you. Where do you get your ideas from? When I read your books, my mind explores because your books are so good. You are such a great story teller. Thank you.
Sincerely,
XX (age 8)
Dear Ellen Fischer,
It was an amazing experience for us to have you teach us about the publishing process. You inspired me to write more, but more importantly to stick with my stories. I am amazed at how hard you have to work to get books published. We all took a lot of meaning out of your visit. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to make our day special.
Warm wishes,
XX(6th grader)
With over 20 years teaching experience, it’s natural for me to make school and library visits. I love doing readings/presentations with the students. Here are some personal tips I’ve learned along the way:
- When a visit is scheduled, the school sends a flyer out to the parents. It informs them that an author will be visiting and offers the opportunity to purchase a book for their child, to be personalized and signed by me. For library visits, usually the librarian has purchased the book and I’ll sign it while I’m there.
- My readings/presentations always involve student participation. I take hand puppets with me for each book. I do a book related activity either before or after the reading.
- I want the schools/libraries to make the most of my visit, so I offer myself to all age groups. The books I write are geared toward younger children, but I can adapt my presentation to all ages:
- Pre-K- Kindergarten: read my book & do a brief activity (15-20 min)
- Grades 1-3, same as above but a Q&A added in. (20-30 min)
- Grades 4-6, presentation about the publishing industry, the importance of editing followed by a lengthy Q&A. Often I explain to the older kids my goals for a particular book. Then I read the book, and have them listen to see if those goals were met.
- As to group size, I prefer multiple readings to smaller groups, but have adjusted many readings for large groups, displaying my books on power point or even projected on an overhead projector.
Many schools/ libraries have budgets for author visits, which is wonderful. Some schools find “angels” to cover the author’s fees. For the schools/libraries with no budget for this, and there are many, there is a wonderful option. I have been participating in a program called SKYPE in the Classroom. Teachers can sign up for free and “invite” an author to their class/library. I have had the pleasure of visiting with students all across America. The visit can be anywhere from 15-30 minutes depending on the request. I might read one of my books or talk about writing and just answer questions. It’s a great opportunity for schools/libraries when funds are limited.
And did I mention how thrilled children are with an “author signed” book? It’s a treasure to keep forever.
Have I convinced you on the importance of author visits? I hope so, but just in case, read this:
Dear Ellen,
You are an amazing author. I love your book, If An Armadillo Went to a Restaurant. I think writing kids books is a fabulous job. Writing is so awesome!
Sincerely,
XX (age 9)
WOW!
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Our guest blogger today is Ellen Fischer. Ellen’s publications include:
- Where are All the Fireflies?, Fun For Kidz, May/June 2012
Courtesy photo from Guest Blogger - The Count’s Hanukkah Countdown, Kar-Ben/Shalom Sesame, July, 2012
- Grover and Big Bird’s Passover Celebration, Kar-Ben/Shalom Sesame, 2012It’s a Mitzvah, Grover!, Kar-Ben/Shalom Sesame, 2012
- I’m Sorry, Grover, Kar-Ben/Shalom Sesame, July, 2013
- If an Armadillo Went to a Restaurant, Scarletta Press, July 1, 2014
- Latke, the Lucky Dog, Kar-Ben, August, 2014
- If An Elephant Went to School, Mighty Media Press, July, 2015
- Grover Goes to Israel, Kar-Ben/Shalom Sesame, spring 2016
Please note that as a guest post, the views expressed here do not represent the official position of ALA or ALSC.
If you’d like to write a guest post for the ALSC Blog, please contact Mary Voors, ALSC Blog manager, at alscblog@gmail.com.