How I Kept My Day Job and Became a Published Author—and You Can, Too!
I always enjoy visiting libraries, whether to talk about writing books or reviewing them. Recently, I put together a program that that covers both topics (well, sort of). If you would like me to visit your local library, just let your local library know! I can be contacted for bookings at keir AT keirgraff DOT com.
Program Description
Keir Graff knows what it’s like to get a bad review—and what it’s like to give one. The author of The Price of Liberty and three other novels will make his debut as a children’s author this year with The Other Felix. He’s also the senior editor of Booklist Online, the website of the American Library Association’s venerable book-review journal, Booklist. His unique perspective on publishing has been earned through years of hard work, serendipity, and sometimes painful trial and error. In this lighthearted and informative talk, Graff tells his own story of breaking into print while offering practical advice about getting published, starting with the question every writer needs to ask: “Will getting published make me happy?” Of interest to prospective authors, fans of thrillers and political fiction, and all who enjoy learning more about the world of books.
Testimonials
"Keir's program, 'How I Kept My Day Job and Became a Published Author,' was just what we were looking for—practical tips for aspiring writers on networking and getting published. Our audience was both inspired and entertained."
—Candy Smith, Head of Readers Advisory, Villa Park (IL) Public Library
"Keir's presentation to the members Off Campus Writers Workshop was a delightful adventure. He mapped out his writing journey with wit and humor and provided useful information about the writing and publishing process."
—Susan Winstead, Program Chair, OCWW
"Keir Graff is a programmer’s dream of a speaker.
"He not only presents great content in “How I kept my day job and became a published author—and you can, too!” he does it very professionally without a glitch in his accompanying visuals and with lots of humor.
"You might ask where humor enters into the sobering subject of getting a work published. In telling his own story of growing up liking to write and in sharing with us his experiences leading up to the writing life he is working to have, Keir makes you chuckle and then he makes you think.
"He never paints a rosy picture of the work it takes to get to the point of publishing, and for that reason I trust his advice. That and his insider’s knowledge of the industry as senior editor of Booklist Online."
—Marjorie Monaghan, Chicago Public Library
"In 'How I Kept My Day Job and Became a Published Author—and You Can, Too,' Keir reveals his own personal experiences of his sometimes-smooth, more-often-rocky road to publication—filled with humor and insights into the ever-changing publishing world. Aspiring authors—whether they’re at the beginning of their writing careers or actively writing, or even published—will benefit greatly from his knowledge and experience, especially on networking in the literary ecosystem."
—Susan R. Gibberman, Head of Reader Services, Schaumburg Township District Library
"Witty, humorous, and smart, Keir's presentation offers an insider's knowledge of the writing community and the quickly changing publishing industry. Whether you're a novice or an experienced writer, do not miss the opportunity to meet Keir and learn how to network yourself into the literary ecosystem."
—Melissa Rice, Frankfort Public Library District
"A fascinating look at what it takes to get published."
—Barbara Bibel, Oakland Public Library
"Full of useful tips for aspiring writers, Keir's witty and informative program is excellent for library audiences. It resonates with readers and writers alike."
—Melissa Kaszynski, Sulzer Regional Library
"Both an author and a book review editor, Keir understands the literary ecosystem of readers, publishers, booksellers, and authors. His witty observations educated and entertained our audience filled with aspiring authors."
—Rick Roche, Thomas Ford Memorial Library
"At a branch where even the promise of cookies can fail to draw a handful of attendees, Keir's program attracted two dozen people, many of whom had to be shooed out the meeting room door at closing time."
—Robin Krueger, Pinney Branch, Madison (WI) Public Library
"Keir Graff shared the entertaining story of how he fulfilled his lifelong dream to be a published author and gave an enlightening insider's perspective of how things really happen in the publishing industry. This talk provided participants with simple methods to get closer to their goal and prepare for a foray into the ultra-exclusive world of publishing."
—Linda Atkins, Oak Lawn (IL) Public Library
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