2 GREAT Reasons for School Visits and 1 Big Caution

When you read about indie-publishing of children’s books, inevitably the marketing discussion turns to school visits.

Yo-Yos or Books?

Many years ago, when I was just starting out with one book published, I went to a school to talk about my book. The week before, the school had invited the YoYo People to come and entertain. They were paid $1000, and they were allowed to send home flyers to sell yo-yos.

For my visit, I was paid nothing, was barely acknowledged by the school administrations, and I had to buy my own lunch.

I vowed that I would never again do free visits (except for family or close friends). I am WAY more educational than Yo-Yos. And I’m even entertaining.

So, why does everyone assume that we should do school visits? There are two great reasons to do school visits - and one big caution. Let’s look at them, and then I’ll give you resources for planning and executing your visits.