Full disclaimer: the header is clickbait. I do not know how to get what I want (read this WikiHow for better support), but I do know quite a lot about trying. Right now, I am on my way to Bologna to attend the biggest children's book fair, which is also my first book fair. I am traveling with my mom and my son. While this three-generation support team may not work for everyone, it works quite well for me.
But let’s dive into the real, tangible steps I took at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair I came for the sole purpose of publishing my Children Book, written and illustrated by me.
Turning the Fair into a Family Adventure
Bringing my mom and son along not only provided emotional support but also transformed the fair into an adventure. For me, it reduced the usual performance stress and lightened the weight of professional expectations. It added a layer of comfort and fun and just made the whole experience more enjoyable and authentic.
Pre-Fair Strategy: Research and Outreach
I leveraged the exhibitors’ directory for a targeted approach, identifying publishers that aligned with my work’s genre and style. Reaching out with personalized proposals and excerpts laid the groundwork for meaningful engagements.
Staying updated on publishers’ websites and social media was key. These platforms often announced open hours for portfolio reviews, which are golden opportunities for direct feedback and networking.
Engaging at the Fair: Flexibility and Learning from Every Interaction
At the fair, I balanced planned meetings with the spontaneity of impromptu conversations, viewing every interaction, even (or especially) rejections, as a chance to learn and gather valuable contacts. At times the game of „what can I take out of this big fat NO?“ was what kept me going.
The informal, dynamic setting of the fair encouraged casual yet potentially significant encounters, turning coffee breaks and leisurely strolls into networking opportunities. So, go alone to the fair. Talk with people for directions, coffee and if their chair is still available.
Maximizing Your Presence: Practical Tips
- Business Cards and Prints: Always be ready to share your work and contact info quickly and effectively.
- Illustrator Competitions: An essential pre-fair step. Entering these competitions can elevate your profile and introduce your work to a broader audience.
- Showcasing a Diverse Portfolio: Display a range of your work before focusing on your book proposal, demonstrating your versatility and opening discussions on various potential projects.
- Arriving Early for Portfolio Reviews: To secure a spot in the coveted portfolio review sessions, arrive early and be prepared to showcase your best work.
Conclusion
The Bologna Children’s Book Fair is not just a professional milestone; it’s an experience enriched by strategic preparation, the joy of shared family moments, and the thrill of networking and learning in a vibrant, international setting. By combining diligent preparation with the spontaneity of on-the-ground interactions, I navigated the fair’s myriad opportunities, each step bringing me closer to my goal of publication and providing a memorable journey I shared with my loved ones.
