3 Tips for your first visit to the Bologna Children's Book Fair:
Following my first-ever visit to the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, I wanted to share a few reflections.
This year, I had the opportunity to attend as part of the Green Bean Books team, where I helped with social media marketing and photography. It was a last-minute decision, but one of those spontaneous choices that turn out to be genuinely worthwhile. The experience was inspiring, eye-opening, and full of lessons I’ll take with me next time.
Bologna in early April is a dream—gentle sunshine, great food and wine, and a city brimming with children’s book art and creativity at every corner. It’s an atmosphere that fills you up with ideas and inspiration.
Of course, I also learned a few things the hard way—like struggling to find a printer for my postcards the night before the fair! So for anyone planning to go next year, here’s what I’d do differently:
Prepare your portfolio, postcards, and dummy books well in advance; book accommodation early while it’s still affordable; and if you can, travel with friends or colleagues—it’s more fun to share the experience, explore the fair together, and meet new people as a group.
There are also plenty of opportunities to showcase your work, from exhibitions and competitions to portfolio reviews. Apply early, and bring something special for the Illustrator’s Wall—it’s a great way to get noticed.
Even with the last-minute rush, being surrounded by so much talent and passion, and the lovley team from Gream Bean Books, reminded me why I love this field—the energy, creativity, and lots of lovley people.
Next time, I plan to return better prepared—and ready to enjoy every moment fully.
Arrivederci, Bologna!
I met the lovely ladies from the Good Ship Illustration, hung my artwork on the illustrator’s wall, worked with the Green Bean Books team, and had fab dinners with them!
