Okay, you have asked and answered the questions about your end of having an author visit your school. Now it’s time to ask prospective authors questions. The obvious questions include cost, availability, number of presentations they’ll do, and what equipment they’ll need.
Here are some not-so-obvious questions:
“What will you do to help prepare our students for your visit?” This could include providing a listing of books, activities to go along with the books, suggested writing activities, and blog communications.
“How will you engage our students?” What’s appropriate for kindergartners won’t necessarily be for fifth graders. Ask how they will address the needs and interests of various age groups. Will the presentations be active, or will the kids be sitting and watching visuals the whole time? How will the curriculum areas you highlighted be addressed?
“What kinds of follow-up would you suggest?” What suggestions does the author have for “after visit” activities? This could be book-related activities, letter/e-mail writing, classroom blogs, newsletters home, or general writing activities.
Look for someone who is flexible, enthusiastic, knowledgeable about what you’re doing (teaching!), and who likes kids. Newsflash: Not all people who write for kids like being around them. You’ll can find this out by talking to prospective authors.
And one more thing: Don’t forget a contract. It doesn’t have to be drawn up by a lawyer, and it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Just a written agreement that states what the school will do and what the author will do. Have the author and a representative of the school sign it and make a copy for each. Having an agreement can save a lot of confusion and hassle.
Coming next: Tips for a successful author visit
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