Press Kits and Local Media for Indie Creators

Local newspapers, radio, community magazines, and school newsletters love a local story: "Area artist turns classic novels into graphic novels." Coverage like this builds credibility and can open doors to libraries, schools, and bookstores. A simple press kit makes it easy to say yes.

What goes in a press kit

Put it on a page on your website (and as a downloadable PDF):

• A short bio — two or three sentences, plus a longer version.
• Your photo — a clear, friendly, high-resolution headshot.
• Book covers in high resolution.
• A one-paragraph description of each book, with age range, page count, ISBN, and where to buy.
• A few sample pages they're allowed to print.
• Interesting facts — why you adapt classics, how long a book takes, anything surprising.
• Contact details.

Find your angle

Journalists need a story, not an ad. Possible angles:

• A local creator making something unusual.
• Making classic literature accessible to young readers.
• A launch event at a local library or bookstore.
• A school visit or workshop.
• A milestone: a new series, a set number of books published.

Pitch briefly

Email the right person — the arts, books, or community editor — with a short note: the story in two sentences, why it matters to their readers, and a link to your press kit. Follow up once, politely, if you don't hear back.

Local first

Start with outlets close to home: local papers, community radio, school and library newsletters, local bloggers and podcasts. They're more likely to say yes, and each piece of coverage makes the next pitch easier.

Make the most of coverage

Share it on your website and social media, mention it in your newsletter, and add a short quote or the outlet's name to your press kit (only what they actually published).

See also getting your graphic novel into schools and libraries — local coverage and local institutions go hand in hand.