Well, everyone! Today is the day! NCTE2022 is finally happening–and that also means that YA lovers will gather for the ALAN Postconvention Workshop.
When I first started going to NCTE, people would tell me to attend ALAN. I would roll my eyes. “Me? With my busy schedule? I can’t take two more days for travel.” As time went on, though, I heard more and more about this incredible workshop–that I’d be able to meet authors, listen to thought-provoking keynotes and panels, and receive the HUGE MAGIC BOX OF BOOKS.
I have to say, the virtual ALAN workshops were productive and interesting–especially since I was able to bake pies while watching panels. But this year, I am eager to reconnect face-to-face with colleagues, open that book box in that ballroom, and learn even more about rising YA authors and their stories.
When I first started going to NCTE, people would tell me to attend ALAN. I would roll my eyes. “Me? With my busy schedule? I can’t take two more days for travel.” As time went on, though, I heard more and more about this incredible workshop–that I’d be able to meet authors, listen to thought-provoking keynotes and panels, and receive the HUGE MAGIC BOX OF BOOKS.
I have to say, the virtual ALAN workshops were productive and interesting–especially since I was able to bake pies while watching panels. But this year, I am eager to reconnect face-to-face with colleagues, open that book box in that ballroom, and learn even more about rising YA authors and their stories.
For some of you new to the workshop, the ALAN community has advice! Here are some pointers from the Facebook ALAN group. And if you aren’t registered for the workshop this year, plan on attending in Columbus, Ohio for 2023!
Get there early, as Neil Klein advises. There will be many other attendees eager to receive their programs, open their boxes, and stake out a spot in the ballroom.
Get there early, as Neil Klein advises. There will be many other attendees eager to receive their programs, open their boxes, and stake out a spot in the ballroom.
Be prepared to pack your books, or to ship your books home. Now, there’s a bit of debate about this–some prefer to ship books media mail (like me), some prefer to ship books priority, and others pack an extra suitcase for a carry-on. In case you are wondering, there will be shipping options close to the workshop.
Get ready to receive some books from authors you know well and some authors you may not be familiar with. This will be true for everyone–and everyone’s boxes will be different. Daria Lynn breaks it down for us: “You won't get everything you hope for and it may not all be for the grade level you work with. Please be gracious. Each publishing company DONATES those books but not every company can give 500 of every book. Plus, part of the fun is trading with other people.” #ALAN22Trades is one way that you can trade with others.
Get ready to receive some books from authors you know well and some authors you may not be familiar with. This will be true for everyone–and everyone’s boxes will be different. Daria Lynn breaks it down for us: “You won't get everything you hope for and it may not all be for the grade level you work with. Please be gracious. Each publishing company DONATES those books but not every company can give 500 of every book. Plus, part of the fun is trading with other people.” #ALAN22Trades is one way that you can trade with others.
Be sure to attend the Sunday evening reception (5-7:30 at the Hilton) and be social. You’ll be able to meet other ALAN attendees, play YA trivia, and meet your favorite authors. Jordan Sonnenblick reminds us: “Please don’t be shy. The authors WANT to meet you.” Speaking as a true introvert, these events can seem overwhelming at times–however, I have found that the excitement of meeting ALAN authors makes for a rather friendly reception atmosphere. Make a point to be there and introduce yourself to a few other people. You’ll see them next year, and the year after that, and the year after that. This workshop is where some lasting friendships are made. Do your best to be social! You won’t regret it.
Dress for comfort. ALAN is about relaxing, connecting with others, and going wild about all of these new YA books. It’s unnecessary to dress formally in this atmosphere. Bring those jeans and yoga pants! The conference room may be cold, so bring a sweater.
As I write this post, I am frantically checking my flight updates, crossing my fingers that this Midwest snowstorm holds off just two more hours so I can get on that plane. See you all in Anaheim for NCTE22 and ALAN22!
Photo credit to Noah Schaffer–who will be dearly missed at this year’s workshop!
As I write this post, I am frantically checking my flight updates, crossing my fingers that this Midwest snowstorm holds off just two more hours so I can get on that plane. See you all in Anaheim for NCTE22 and ALAN22!
Photo credit to Noah Schaffer–who will be dearly missed at this year’s workshop!
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