Originally Posted by
zpaul
My understanding is that an "O" visa would apply in this case - Visa for Persons of Extraordinary Ability (which has a very loose interpretation). This normally covers people coming for paid speaking engagements, among many other things, so I think it would apply in this case.
No. He's not likely to be paid in the US directly. His agent would be paid. He is merely acting for his employer (himself and/or agent and/or publishers), which may (or may not) have a consequent effect upon sales. A B1 visa would be easy to get and appropriate. Heck, a VWP for business would probably be broadly qualify as appropriate so long as he can
guarantee that no one pays him for anything while in the US.