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20 Platforms Where Authors Can Get Booked for Speaking, Readings, and Events (U.S.)

Welcome to the April edition of the Rise2Write Monthly Newsletter!


At Rise2Write Publishing, we do not Gatekeep! We are committed to supporting our Black and Brown Authors, beyond just promoting their books! We encourage you to also promote yourselves! Once you become a published author, you become a walking brand!


Authors, let’s change how we think about our books. Instead of seeing your book as just a product, view it as a platform that can lead to speaking opportunities and meaningful community engagement. It doesn't matter if it's a fiction romance novel or a fantasy. You still have an audience! Stop doubting your genre, and start building your author brand!

For this month's newsletter, I want to ensure that Black and Brown Authors and Writers are aware of the various platforms available for securing speaking engagements. Many speaking opportunities come from direct outreach. Authors who confidently pitch themselves to schools, libraries, conferences, and organizations often find more chances to connect.


One of the most effective ways to boost your brand awareness, grow your audience, and increase book sales is to speak at events, host readings, and participate in literary festivals. Relying solely on book royalties isn't enough. In reality, many successful authors also earn money and expand their reach by:

• Speaking engagements

• School visits

• Library events

• Book fairs and festivals

• Workshops and conferences


What is an Author Speaker Kit Template?

An Author speaker kit helps event organizers evaluate and book you more easily. Authors should prepare a one-page or PDF media kit that includes the following.


Here are 6 tips on what to include in yours below:

1. Professional Author Bio

Provide a short paragraph introducing yourself, your book, and your expertise.

Example:

Dee Evans is the Founder and CEO of Rise2Write Publishing, a bestselling author, podcast host, and certified life coach dedicated to empowering underrepresented voices through storytelling and publishing education.


2. Book Overview

Provide a brief description of your book and the themes it covers.

Example:

“Kai and the Superhero Mission” is an action-packed chapter book for ages 8–12 about courage, family, and discovering the hero within.


3. Speaking Topics

List 3–5 topics you can speak about.

Example topics:

• The Self-Publishing Journey

• Turning Your Story Into a Book

• The Power of Diverse Voices in Literature

• Writing and Publishing for First-Time Authors


4. Audience Types

List the types of audiences you can address.

Examples:

• Schools

• Libraries

• Writing groups

• Conferences

• Churches and faith-based organizations

• Corporate leadership programs


5. Testimonials

Include feedback from readers, event organizers, or educators.

Example:

“An inspiring speaker who connects deeply with audiences and aspiring writers.”


6. Contact Information

Always include:

• Email

• Website

• Social media

• Booking contact


Many event organizers are always eager to find speakers who can genuinely educate, inspire, and truly engage audiences, making the experience memorable for everyone.


Before we explore the 20 platforms, let's make sure you are set up for success.

Check out our checklist below to increase your chances of getting booked. 


How Authors Get Paid for Speaking Engagements:

Many authors overlook the fact that their book can lead to paid speaking opportunities. The key is to position yourself as both an expert and a speaker, not just an author.

Use this checklist to boost your chances of getting booked.


Step 1: Build an Author Website (Yes, you can build a Free website)

Your website should include:

• Author bio

• Book details

• Speaker page

• Contact form


Step 2: Develop a Speaker Page

Your speaker page should highlight:

• Speaking topics

• Audience types

• Testimonials

• Booking contact information


Step 3: Engage with Pitch Event Organizers

Send personalized emails to:

• Libraries

• Schools

• Conferences

• Nonprofits

• Bookstores


Step 4: Offer Different Speaking Formats

Examples:

• Keynote speeches

• Writing workshops

• Book readings

• Panel discussions

• Virtual author talks


Step 5: Determine Your Speaking Fees

Typical speaking rates vary based on experience.

Typical ranges:

• School visits: $300–$3,000

• Library talks: $250–$1,500

• Conferences: $1,000–$10,000

• Corporate speaking: $5,000+


Step 6: Promote Your Speaking Services

Promote your speaking services on:

• LinkedIn

• Instagram/Threads

• Author website

• Substack or Medium Newsletter

• Speaker platforms


Your book is not just a product; it is a platform. Many authors find that speaking is one of the most effective ways to grow their brand and influence.


Finally, here is the list of 20 platforms and organizations where authors can secure event bookings across the United States.


1.Book An Author

About: A platform connecting authors with schools, libraries, and organizations for speaking engagements and readings.

Opportunities:

• School visits

• Library events

• Writing workshops

• Author talks

How it works:

Authors create a profile listing their book, speaking topics, and availability for events.


2. Author Village

About: A marketplace that connects authors with schools and educational institutions.

Opportunities:

• School visits

• Virtual author talks

• Literacy workshops


3. Author’s Booking

About:

A speaker booking agency that helps connect authors with corporate events, conferences, and speaking engagements.

Opportunities:

• Corporate speaking

• Leadership conferences

• Educational events


4. The Author’s Guild Speaker Bureau

About: The Author’s Guild occasionally connects professional authors with speaking opportunities and industry events.

Opportunities:

• Industry panels

• Writing conferences

• Literary speaking engagements


5. National Book Foundation – Author Events

About: Hosts literary events and connects authors with book festivals and speaking opportunities.


6. American Library Association Author Events

About: Libraries frequently host author talks, book readings, and workshops.

Opportunities:

• Library speaking engagements

• Community literacy programs

• Book clubs and readings

Tip: Many libraries allow authors to contact programming coordinators directly.


7. Library Speakers Consortium

About: A national platform that hosts virtual author talks for hundreds of libraries across the U.S.

Opportunities:

• Virtual speaking events

• Library reading programs

• National author series


8. All American Speakers Bureau

Website: https://www.allamericanspeakers.com

About: One of the largest speaker bureaus that books authors, thought leaders, and experts for conferences and events.

Opportunities:

• Keynote speeches

• Corporate events

• Leadership conferences


9. SpeakerHub

About: A platform where speakers and authors can create a profile and get booked for events.

Opportunities:

• Conferences

• Workshops

• Panel discussions


10. Eventbrite (Host Your Own Author Events)

About: Authors can host their own book readings, workshops, or book launch events and sell tickets.

Opportunities:

• Book signings

• Author workshops

• Writing masterclasses

Platforms for Book Festivals & Literary Events


11. AWP (Association of Writers & Writing Programs)

About: Hosts one of the largest literary conferences and book fairs in the U.S.

Opportunities:

• Author panels

• Book fair booths

• Writing workshops


12. The Miami Book Fair

About: One of the largest literary festivals in the United States.

Opportunities:

• Author panels

• Book signings

• Workshops


13. Brooklyn Book Festival

About: A major literary festival featuring independent and traditional authors.


14. National Black Book Festival

About: A festival specifically celebrating Black authors and literature.

Opportunities:

• Book signings

• Panel discussions

• Author showcases


15. Harlem Book Fair

About: One of the largest African American literary events in the U.S.

Opportunities:

• Book signings

• Author talks

• Networking with publishers and readers

Platforms for School Author Visits

These are excellent for children’s book authors and educational authors.


16. StorySeer

Connects authors and illustrators with schools and libraries.


17. Author Visits by Skype

Allows authors to conduct virtual school visits and readings.


18. Read Across America Programs

Authors can participate in literacy events across the U.S.

Platforms to Host or Participate in Book Fairs


19. BookFunnel Author Promotions

Authors can collaborate on multi-author promotions and virtual book fairs.


20. BookFairy Promotions

Helps promote books through virtual book fairs and promotional campaigns.


Why Speaking Engagements Are Powerful for Authors?

Speaking events can help authors:

• Sell more books

• Build credibility

• Grow their audience

• Earn additional income

• Establish themselves as thought leaders


Many authors earn $1,000–$10,000 per speaking engagement once established.

Authors who position themselves as thought leaders on their book topics often secure higher-paying speaking engagements. For many, speaking engagements become one of the most profitable aspects of their brand. Your Voice Deserves to be Heard! You are a Walking Brand!



RISE2WRITE’S APRIL RELEASES 🎉:

“SUITS & PAJAMAS: A Memoir of Grace, Grit, and Becoming” by T’Juana Albert

This book is for ambitious women who feel overlooked, underestimated, or under-credentialed, but know they are capable of more.It’s for professionals navigating workplace politics without traditional advantages.It’s for women who have built excellence through grit rather than privilege.It’s for leaders who are tired of performing strength and ready to live whole.If you’re searching for books about success without a degree, corporate burnout recovery, women in leadership, or Black women in business, SUITS & PAJAMAS offers both representation and a roadmap.


RISE2WRITE’S UPCOMING RELEASES:

“Kai and the Superhero Mission: A Superhero Chapter Book Adventure” by Mykah Wingfield

Kai thought his Dad was just an ordinary man. Until the day he discovers a secret that changes everything.

Suddenly, Kai realizes the hero protecting their town has been much closer than he ever imagined. As new dangers begin to rise, Kai is pulled into a world of secrets, bravery, and unexpected adventure.

But being a hero isn’t easy and Kai may have to find courage he never knew he had.

Kai and the Superhero Mission is an exciting chapter book adventure about family, courage, and discovering the hero within.

Perfect for readers ages 8–12

Order “Kai and The Superhero Mission” 📍https://a.co/d/0gkzQdz4


👉🏾 Launch Your Book: An 8-Module Self-Paced Self-Publishing and Marketing Course with Rise2Write from Manuscript to Market

This self-paced course, Launch Your Book, guides writers like you through each step, from the initial spark of an idea to the intentional publishing and marketing of your book. You will gain access to a wide range of resources, including videos, audio files, checklists, strategies, templates, and essential guidance for confident and intentional self-publishing. The program offers unlimited access to all materials. You don’t have to be a bestselling author to begin. You just need to Start!

SAVE 10% on “Launch your Book” Course using Code: SAVE10

Are you ready to confidently self-publish your book?

or

Are you Ready to partner with Rise2Write to Publish your Book?

If you Prefer Full-service, Streamlined Publishing:📚 CLICK HERE to Explore Rise2Write’s Publishing Services

If you’re interested in learning more about collaborating with Rise2Write to achieve your publishing aspirations, you can book a consultation using this link: calendly.com/rise2write


Rise2Write Publishing LLC is a full-service, Black-owned indie publishing company that empowers minorities to become published authors. We offer comprehensive book publishing services that guide clients through the entire journey from inception to publication. Specializing in nonfiction, fiction, children’s books, and more, we ensure a seamless and high-quality publishing experience. 



Together, we rise. Together, we write.

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Thank you for reading! Happy Writing!


Blessings,

Rise2Write Publishing LLC

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