1. Michigan AuthorA look at Leslie Helakoski (author/illustrator)By: Amber Nevisonand Sarah Rogers

2. Leslie Helakoski Grew up in Louisiana French speaking area 6 brothers and sistersParents were teachers"Thinking School" 3. Life Changes University of Louisiana 1st professional job in Wisconsin Eventually moved to Michigan Currently resides near Kalamazoo, Mi. 4. Book Awards Various awards for her books.2008 Book Sense Hot PickGreat Lakes Book Award finalist Multiple awards per book. Numerous starred reviews 5. Michigan Connection Winner of Michigan Awards Attended Northern Michigan University in the U.P. currently resides in Kalamazoo area with family 6. Woolbur Woolbur marches to the beat ofhis own drum. He is told he needs to behave like the other sheep, butthe beauty of his unique dispositionshines through. 7. More about book Fun text and illustrations This book would be best for ages 4-8 Character education book for lower elementary Introduction to diversity Morals, self esteem, individuality 8. Big Chickens Big Chickens follows fourchickens on their journey offinding their strength andpride in being "BigChickens". 9. More about book Fun text and illustrations Most appropriate for ages 4-8 Be comfortable with yourself Humor is fun 10. Illustrations Degree in Illustration Two new books due outwith her own illustrationsand writing She doesnt just write! 11. Why Read Leslies Books? Multiple activities that connectto her books Covers every learning style Fun characters and storylines Endless Possibilities 12. http://www.helakoskibooks.com/ (images, book information, bio) http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard/books-by/leslie-helakoski (publisher) http://www.harpercollins.com/authors/30022/Leslie_Helakoski/index.aspx (publiher) http://kidsbooklink.org/id15.html (award winning author) http://www.jupiterimages.com/Search/Image#book/f=CBPIHVNS/p=2 (public domainimages) http://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/0,2351,7-160-34169_26038_49406---,00.html (award symbol) http://michiganreading.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=105&Itemid=185 (award symbol)