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

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