Preparation is essential for a successful
author visit. Activities such as classroom discussions and
displays, as well as reading the author's books, will help
to ensure a rewarding visit.
The visit should take place in a quiet area, such as a
classroom or library, where there will be minimal distractions.
The age and reading level of the students should be appropriate
to the author's books.
The number of students at a session varies according to
the author's preference and the type of presentation. Please
discuss the number of students with the author well in advance
of the visit.
The author requires an introduction to each group of students,
and the students should be under the supervision of one or
more teachers at all times.
The average length of a reading is 45 minutes. The author
may make one or two presentations in a half day visit and
three or four presentations in a full-day visit. Please discuss
this matter with the author well in advance, and arrange a
mutually agreeable format.
Many authors bring copies of their books to sell to students
after their presentation. Please discuss this with the author
prior to their visit and when applicable, inform your students
that books will be available for purchase.
Please provide a break of at least 15 minutes between
presentations, and a one-hour lunch break between morning
and afternoon sessions. The school should provide lunch
for the author if she/he is at the school for the full day.
Clear directions to the school and to the site of the
reading are extremely helpful. Also, if the author is staying
in the area overnight, suggestions as to restaurants and
accommodation facilities would be appreciated.
Please be aware that any form of recording, taping, or
broadcasting of the reading without prior written approval
from the author is strictly prohibited. The Writers' Union
of Canada welcomes your comments regarding this visit, and
about the program in general.
