I ADORE this post by Kim Norman at Author Visits by State: Why do authors charge fees for school presentations? If you're a media specialist, librarian, teacher, or interested parent - please read this article!!!
I spend so much time responding to requests for speaking engagements that start out sounding sincere but don't pan out because the inquirer actually wants my services for free (or ridiculously low pay). It's HOURS away from my work (why they are interested in me in the first place), and it can be hurtful - why would anybody assume my time has no value?
Especially when I really do love doing school visits. I love the energy created from sharing my passion with kids – seeing their eyes light up when they are inspired and fascniated - there's nothing like it.
Now I know there are some schools who truly who cannot afford my visits (or anybody else's) and I am working on finding ways around that. (Hope to share soon.) Because a visit with an author or illustrator can truly change lives. When a real person shares how they successfully accomplished their (seemingly impossible) dreams, children's dreams move from far-fetched ideas to actual possibilities for their future. It can mean everything to them.
You can learn more about my school visits (and even see me in action) on my VISITS PAGE.
It's tough to have to turn down a school visit because of budget concerns. On the one hand, you want to help out the kids and make their school day special, but on the other hand you can't afford to do that sort of thing for free.
ReplyDeleteI love that you do Skype visits! Such a great idea!
It is tough, and that's partly why it's so hurtful to be asked to do them for free. I wish I could, but it's just not realistic.
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