This article discusses the benefits of an author-in-residence program in assisting students to develop and enhance their reading skills. The author presents several basic guidelines in planning for an author's school visit, which include seeking staff assistance in selecting an author, determining the length of the residency, and making the author's visit a special day. The ultimate goal of an author-in-residence program is to make it an experience that remains with students and provide an incentive for reading. This requires that the experience be connected to the school's curriculum and crafted to affirm the importance of reading for middle-level students, not only in school but throughout their lives.