Tips for Throwing a Kid Friendly Book Bash
A little over a week ago, I held a Book Bash for my first traditionally published children’s book, Mermaid Candy: A Sea Glass Adventure.
It was an incredibly emotional experience for me — I was finally realizing a dream I’ve had since I was 13 years old: to become a real, published children’s author and illustrator.
I sent my very first manuscript to a publisher while I was still in middle school, and I haven’t stopped trying for almost three decades. I’ve self‑published many children’s books over the years, gone the indie‑press route for multiple titles, and even had a well‑known literary agency represent me for a short while — but this time, the experience was different. I had a real editor to bounce ideas off of, and a whole team to work with and receive feedback from.
It was a dream come true — and months before Mermaid Candy ever saw the light of day, I was already dreaming up a way to mark this momentous occasion.
If you find yourself in a similar position, here are a few tips I’d love to share so your event goes beautifully too!
Location
Choose a location that embraces your community — your friends, supporters, and the children you hope will fall in love with your book. I was lucky enough to host my event at our town’s Arts Council in Atlantic Highlands, which ended up being the perfect bright and lively space.
Food
Definitely choose a theme for the food you offer at your Book Bash! Since my book is all about the ocean and under‑the‑sea magic, it was an easy choice to go with fun, enticing sugary treats that kids would absolutely fill up on (and they did!).
Some people might want to add sliced fruits or veggies, but I was thinking in terms of what I could prepare at least two days in advance — especially since I had another event the day before.
I found many of my ideas on Pinterest, and I even came across a brilliant recipe for Sand Dollar Cookies — which were a HUGE hit.
Here is the link to the exact recipe I use for the sand dollar cookies!
Decorations
Just like the food, you want decorations that don’t spoil and aren’t difficult to assemble. I don’t use balloons (long story — let’s just say I’ve seen one too many problems with them in the ocean), so I used paper props and dried flower arrangements, which I was able to put together days in advance.
Entertainment
You can’t just “sign books” at a Book Bash meant for kids — it’s not exciting enough! You need fun activities that help them pass the time and make the day memorable.
I spent one entire afternoon making seashell‑shaped crayons, which I gave to everyone who attended. (Leave a comment below if you’d like details on how I made them!)
I also designed coloring pages for the kids and set up a little station where they could draw on sea glass to create their own sea glass pet.
Books
Don’t forget the most important part! Bring plenty of books to sell and sign. Even if you only sell a fraction of them, it looks professional and abundant to have a nice stack displayed.
Also — treat yourself to some new Sharpie markers before the big day. Nothing works better for signing your name inside!
Are you an author or illustrator planning your own event to introduce your book to the world? Leave a comment below and tell us about your book and where we can find it.
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Ashley