You can follow me on Instagram at @helakoski and facebook at Leslie Helakoski or Helakoski Books. My email is lhelakoski@gmail.com

I enjoy talking about writing and visiting schools --it keeps  me connected to my audience now that my own kids have flown the coop. The open minds of children and the enthusiasm of their teachers always amazes and inspires me. And teaching is in my blood. I grew up in my parent's Montessori school. I worked with them for many years tying lessons into stories in fun active ways. I have gone on to teach many topics from swimming, to initiative training to art and I now teach writing workshops around the country. But kids are still my favorite audience. 

Several topics I cover as an author/illustrator are listed below. All talks use a large screen and powerpoint. If you are interested in having me come to your school or function, please contact me for rates or more information at lhelakoski@gmail.com. Please include your school's name and location in your inquiry. Basic fees are $900-1000* within an hour of Kalamazoo MI or Lafayette Louisiana and include three separate presentations. Travel expenses may apply to other locations. I usually speak to K-5, but also work with older kids in writing workshops. I understand well how funding for extra activities works (or doesn't) and the importance of arts related programs in our schools. 

​

Want to schedule a virtual or in person school visit? Contact me at lhelakoski@gmail.com or through helakoskibooks.com.

​

If you'd like to sponsor an author or illustrator but don't have the means to do so, consider these options:

​

1. Selling the author's books during the visit can generate a profit. Sponsoring schools qualify for good discounts and the savings can then be offered to attendees or used as a fund raiser to help defray speaker costs. 

2. There are various grant programs designed for school visits.  For more information see links at the bottom of this page.

3.  Virtual visits. A 20 minute virtual visit is free if you order books. It includes a Q&A session and new projects. Students should be prepared by reading several books in advance.

4. Working with other schools in your area to coordinate visits around the same time can reduce travel costs and are eligible for discounts.

*Rates are based on presentations being in the same building/location and do not include the expense of travel. Please feel free to contact me with special requests/custom program ideas--I am happy to work with you on ideas. Multi-day visits or artist/author in residence programs are eligible for discounted rates. See contact info below or email me with questions at lhelakoski@gmail.com.

I offer critique services on manuscripts in progress. There is a lot to learn about this industry and what steps should or should not be taken. I am meticulous in covering concept, plot, rhyme, word play and readability and will include line edits as well as an editorial letter. Basic rate for non-rhyming mansucript is $75--based on one hour of my time. If the manuscript is in rhyme or if the writer is a true beginner, critiquing will likely take more than one hour. Please click on the Critiques header at the top of the page for more information.