Preparing Bologna Children’s Book Fair
My First Bologna Book Fair: Excitement, Nerves, and Way Too Many Postcards
So it's actually happening—I'm going to the Bologna Children's Book Fair for the first time, and I'm equal parts thrilled and terrified. If you'd told me a year ago I'd be prepping for the biggest children's book event in the world, I probably would have laughed nervously and changed the subject. But here we are.
I thought I'd share what my prep journey has looked like so far, partly because writing it down helps me feel like I have my act together, and partly because I know there are other first-timers out there wondering what they've gotten themselves into.
Bologna Book Fair Logo
Finding My People
One of the best things I did early on was join a WhatsApp support group for SCBWI members heading to Bologna. Honestly, this has been a lifesaver. There's something incredibly reassuring about connecting with other illustrators and authors who are asking the same questions, sharing tips, and generally being wonderfully supportive.
The group has helped with everything from practical stuff (what to wear, how to navigate the halls) to emotional support (yes, imposter syndrome is real, and yes, everyone else feels it too). If you're going and haven't found your community yet, I highly recommend it. You don't have to do this alone.
Printing and More Printing
I've spent more time than I care to admit at the print shop lately. Here's what I've got sorted:
Business cards — Classic, essential, non-negotiable. I went with a design that shows off my illustration style because I want people to remember me, not just another white rectangle with contact details.
Postcards — These double as mini portfolio pieces. I picked some of my favourite illustrations, ones that really capture what I do. They're great for leaving behind after conversations or tucking into someone's hand when you're too nervous to say much.
Press sheets — I made these for my published books and a couple of new projects I'm working on. They've got cover art, a brief synopsis, and all the key details. Professional but still me, if that makes sense.
Postcard sample from Samina Goes to a wedding/ Owl Books
Another fun postcard sample
And another postcard!
Mapping Out the Madness
This fair is enormous. Like, genuinely overwhelming in scale. So I've been doing my homework—figuring out which halls I need to prioritize, which exhibitors I want to visit, and what times things tend to get busiest. I'm meeting my agent there. In person. At BBFC. We've worked together remotely, so I am looking forward to finally meeting her.
And here is another postcard I have made to share at the show.
The Honest Truth
Am I nervous? Absolutely. My brain keeps cycling through worst-case scenarios: What if I say something ridiculous to a publisher? What if my postcards don’t look impressive? What if I get lost in this vast maze?
But underneath the nerves, there's this bubbling excitement I can't ignore. This is what I've been working toward., All those late nights prepping for this trip.
I'm going to The Bologna Children’s Book fair. I'm going to pin my work on the Illustrators Wall. I'm going to hand out my postcards, meet my agent, connect with incredible people who love children's books as much as I do.