How to Invite Local Authors to Speak at Your Book Club (Even Virtually)

Key Takeaways

• Local authors often welcome the chance to speak to small groups.
• Book clubs add value to authors through engagement and promotion.
• You don’t need personal connections to invite an author—just a clear and respectful approach.
• Virtual visits can be just as engaging as in-person ones.
• Thoughtful planning, good communication, and a warm welcome go a long way.
• Follow up with gratitude to build long-term relationships.

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Why Invite Local Authors to Book Club?

Inviting a local author to your book club adds a whole new layer to the discussion. Instead of guessing an author's intention, you can hear it straight from them.

Here’s why it’s worth trying:

• Local authors often love community engagement.
• Your group gets behind-the-scenes insight on plot, characters, or inspiration.
• Authors can gain valuable feedback and exposure.
• It helps support creatives in your local area.

One of our most meaningful meetings was with a debut author who shared how a real-life event shaped a turning point in her story. The room was silent—everyone was hooked.🔗 Read next: 5 Questions to Spark Engaging Book Club Discussions Image: A small group gathered in a cozy living room listening to a guest author.

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How to Find Local Authors (Start with These Places)

You don’t need a huge network to find authors open to speaking. Start simple.

Try looking in:

• Independent bookstores — check event calendars or staff picks.
• Library events or community bulletin boards.
• Facebook groups or Substack newsletters focused on indie authors.
• University or writing program websites (look for alumni publications).

External tool: Poets & Writers Local Author Directory Image: A library table display labeled "Local Authors." 🔗 Related read: Guide to Starting a Book Club with Friends

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Making the First Contact – What to Say and Send

Keep it clear and respectful. You don’t need a long message—just the basics.

What to include in your message:

• Who you are and what your club is about
• The book you read (ideally one they wrote)
• How many people are in the club
• Format: online or in-person?
• A few proposed dates and time options

Here’s a quick message template:

Subject	Example
Greeting	Hi [Author Name],
Intro	I'm part of a book club that just read…
Invite	We'd love to invite you to chat with us.
Details	We meet on Zoom/in person on...
Thank You	Thanks for considering!

Image: Open laptop screen with an email draft. Tip: Offer to buy signed copies or post a photo on social media after the event.

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Hosting Virtually: Tips for Smooth Remote Sessions

Virtual visits make it easy to include authors from anywhere—and many prefer it.

Here’s how to make it work:

• Use simple platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, or Jitsi.
• Send the link and time at least a week in advance.
• Assign someone to handle any tech issues.
• Set expectations: format, time length, and whether the session will be recorded.

One of our favorite visits was with a children’s book author Zooming in from her kitchen while her cat walked across the keyboard—it made everyone feel more connected.

External event source: Eventbrite Author Talks Image: Screenshot of a video call with smiling participants and an author holding a book.

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Questions to Ask an Author (Without Repeating Interviews)

Skip the generic questions. Focus on what made the story stick with your group.

Good question examples:

• “Did [character] always have that ending, or did it change later?”
• “How did your personal experience shape this part?”
• “Which scene was hardest to write?”

Avoid asking:

Boring Questions	Better Alternatives
Where do you get your ideas?	What inspired [specific scene or line]?
How long did the book take?	What moment in writing felt like a breakthrough?

Image: Handwritten questions in a reader’s journal. 🔗 Use these too: 10 Icebreaker Questions for Your Next Book Club Meeting

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Creating a Warm Welcome (Even If You’re Online)

Whether it’s in-person or remote, authors appreciate a friendly tone and smooth flow.

Make it feel personal:

• Assign one member to introduce everyone and guide the chat.
• Prepare 2–3 strong opening questions to get things going.
• Offer a thank-you gift (even digital).

We once sent a $10 gift card and a handwritten note via email. The author shared it on their Instagram and even followed up with new book updates.🔗 Gift tip: How to Create a Personalized Book Gift Box Image: Book club waving to a laptop camera.

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Promoting the Visit — Before and After

Let others know your club had an author guest. It helps both your group and the author.

Before:

• Announce the event on social media (with author permission).
• Ask if they want you to use a specific hashtag or link.

After:

• Share your favorite quotes or moments from the chat.
• Post a group photo (with permission).
• Leave a short review of the book online.

Image: Instagram post featuring book club members holding up the author’s book. 🔗 You might also like: Fun Bookish Facts Every Book Lover Should Know.

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Following Up and Building an Ongoing Relationship

Thank the author afterward and keep the door open for future events.

What you can do:

• Send a thank-you email or digital card.
• Mention specific things your members enjoyed.
• Offer to feature their next release or share their website.

Some clubs even rotate authors into future reading choices. If you build a relationship, it might turn into an annual event.🔗 Check out: The Most Anticipated Books of 2025 Image: Email screen with "Thank You for Visiting" subject line.

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