School Visits for Children's Authors: Expert Tips with Ann Koffsky | Nonfiction Kidlit Podcast
In this episode of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations podcast, host Kirsten Larson interviews Ann Koffsky, author and illustrator of more than 50 children's books, about how to create successful school visits and venue events.
Ann shares her expertise on planning, executing, and marketing school visits that engage young readers while helping authors build their career. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your existing school visit program, this conversation offers practical advice from an experienced professional.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction
02:20 What are school and venue visits?
04:25 Benefits of school visits for authors
09:00 Managing book sales during visits
14:00 Challenges of school visits and classroom management
15:50 Engagement strategies for different age groups
19:09 Creating takeaways and meaningful messages
22:34 Giving away materials when not everyone buys books
25.28 Marketing yourself to schools
35:44 Practical tips and things to know before you start
37:43 Where to find Ann Koffsky
FEATURED BOOKS:
• Ping Pong Shabbat: The True Story of Champion Estee Ackerman (illustrated by Abigail Rajunov)
• The Peddler and the President (illustrated by Pedro Rodriguez) RESOURCES MENTIONED:
• Imprint.com (for affordable bookmarks)
• Creating coloring pages as giveaways
• World Read Aloud Day opportunities
• BOCES (NY) and similar educational service organizations
CONNECT WITH ANN KOFFSKY:
Website: https://annkoffsky.com
Instagram: @annkoffsky
CONNECT WITH KIRSTEN LARSON:
Website: https://kirstenwlarson.com
Newsletter: http://kirstenwlarson.com
#SchoolVisits #AuthorVisits #ChildrensAuthor #KidLit #NonfictionKidlit #AuthorMarketing #TeacherResources #LibrarianResources #WritingCommunity #BookTalks #PictureBookAuthor #JewishBooks #AuthorTips #WritingAdvice
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