I’m a member of our local (as well as national) SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators). In this organization, I am able to meet some wonderful authors. A few years ago I met Leslie Helakoski at ALA or NCTE, not sure which, and found out that her mother lives in our area, and she dances to Cajun and Zydeco music. Turns out, I know her mother from our dancing circle. Small world.
Leslie was involved with the SCBWI in her home state of Michigan. Well, lucky us, she is now splitting her time between the two states, Michigan and Louisiana. She has taught a few picture book workshops in our area, and I greatly admire her talent. Not to mention, she is a very nice person, too.
Leslie’s latest release is as sweet a story as she is. Are Your Stars Like My Stars? is a picture book about colors. No, it’s a book about friendship. No, it’s a book about diversity. All in one, Leslie’s rhyming verse asks the question, “Is your blue like my blue?” Leading us to see through the eyes of a child that we can all see things differently, and that is the best thing of all.
With engaging art from Heidi Woodward Sheffield, any child will be entranced by the coloring book collage style.
Do you splash in a puddle
when the world is washed clean?
Are the leaves fresh and bright?Is your green…
Leslie Helakoski
… like my green?
You can find out more about Leslie’s books here. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram, @helakoskibooks. If you are in Lafayette, LA on Saturday, January 25th, come by Barnes and Noble and get a personal signed copy.
Reflections on the Teche 
I agree–this book is a charmer! Leslie and I did a book swap when she was in Michigan last week, and I am glad to own this treasure. Love the simple questions that speak so clearly to a child.
Yay, Buffy! I’m so glad to hear that you and Leslie know each other. I am building a network of powerful women writers!
Thank you Margaret for this lovely review of STARS. I’m thrilled to be back home in Louisiana where I can already see that dancing and eating are going to take up more of my time than they did in Michigan.