​Awesome Virtual Author Visits

By Susan Kralovansky

I was fortunate enough to close out this topsy-turvy year with a virtual school visit. The one thing that Covid didn’t change is the need to connect with kids and celebrate books, reading, and writing. 

Luckily, earlier this year, both Kelly Milner Halls and Kate Messner had the foresight to plan a virtual presentation on giving virtual visits. As Kelly says, “Covid-19 has tossed a wrench into modern education.” In normal times, author visits are all about the interaction with students. But, with a little organization, a little planning (both ladies provided great planning hand-outs.) and a little practice, you can still achieve that interaction. 

Things to think about when adapting your programs for a virtual visit:

1. Your space: This doesn’t have to be a dedicated room. Pick a quiet spot where you can put your laptop.
2. Your hardware: You’ll need a computer with internet access, a webcam, and a microphone. (Your laptop probably has a built-in camera and microphone.)
3. Your program: Here’s where the planning and practice come in. Take your in-person event and list what needs to be tweaked for maximum engagement and learning. Most presentations will run about 45 minutes; however, my kindergarten-second grade programs are closer to 30 minutes. This last visit, I talked to both children in the classroom and children learning remotely about my book How Fire Ants Got Their Fire and then did a drawing lesson. Your program can be as short as reading a book or as involved as going through your writing process. You can include a science lesson (if your book is science-related), a drawing lesson, an author interview, or even a multi-day writing workshop, 
4. Fees: Who knows? My suggestion is to charge a quarter of your regular daily fee.
5. Book sales: YES! If you schedule a Virtual Visit early enough, you can work out the logistics of book sales.
6. Have fun: If you have fun, the kids will have fun. 

We all miss that handshake or hug or quick conversation when autographing a book, but for now, we need to celebrate the positives – No more driving to get to your school or lugging props to and from your car, AND,  you get to sleep in your own bed.

Our goal is still the same - to support teacher instruction and excite children about reading and writing, which we can totally do with an awesome virtual visit.
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