So begins the story of Helen Lester, author of Tacky the Penguin and many other popular books for children. By sharing her struggles as a child and...
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reviews
Aug 21, 2010
Lisa
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I thoroughly enjoyed this autobiographical book. The author, who has written children’s books, including Tacky the Penguin, talks straightforwardly about what the writing process is like, its joys and challenges. She started off “mirror writing” and overcame that learning disability and then did become a teacher then a writer. She writes about the difficulties of the writing process, getting published, etc. She’s funny and poignant.
I wish I’d had this book as a kid. I think it’s a t More...
I wish I’d had this book as a kid. I think it’s a t More...
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Apr 25, 2011
Vicki
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Author A true Story by Helen Lester is a wonderful book! This author has a wonderful sense of humor about life, which comes through in her much loved book, Tacky the Penguin. In this book she talks about how hard it is to write, to write at all. The front cover is of her in the shower writing on wet soggy paper because that is when she is inspired. During the story she goes through the process of submitting a book to publishers and being able to take rejection, again and again before she is acce
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Jan 29, 2010
Nadia
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I think this is a great book that can be used to show students how authors all go through a time of frustration during the writing process. The idea of her 'fizzle box' where she kept her unfinished thoughts reminds me of a writer's notebook' that some teachers use in their classrooms. This is definitely a book I would use to show my kids that it's normal to become a little frustrated with writing, but that once you finally get there, it all seems worth it.
Sep 21, 2010
Ruth
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Author Helen Lester shares her experiences as a writer, beginning at age three. It is an honest look at the challenges confronted and the persistence needed to get a book published. Refreshingly honest, readers will definitely learn some tips on writing as they grasp that most accomplishments in life are not achieved without some setbacks.
Jul 12, 2011
This book is an autobiography. Helen was once a mirror writer. And then “thanks to a lot of help…” she learned to write correctly. This book is mostly (21 of the 32 pages) about her struggle, as a child and an adult, to become a good author. I think that this book will inspire children not to give up no matter their struggle.
Feb 01, 2011
Sung
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This is a cute non-fiction story about how the author became an author. It's very easy to understand and it would be great to read to a group of students before a writing lesson or when they just need some encouragement. It's also good for those who love to write anyway!
Mar 22, 2010
Rachel
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This is a great book to help teach children the process of writing - it shows that it doesn't all come at once and that ideas can come from anywhere. I think this is a wonderful introduction to being an author.
Nov 07, 2010
Heloyce
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Have loved Helen Lester's fun children's stories but was intrigued by her own account of learning and writing. A very short narrative of an author who loves what she is doing.
Jul 28, 2011
Cassie
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A great book for young writers (or to inspire adults too)! This story shows that it's possible to follow your dreams, even if you make some mistakes along the way.
Nov 17, 2007
Toree
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I like the lesson the author teaches students who read this book and how not to give up even when you are struggling.
For beginning and struggling writers grades 1st through 4th.
For beginning and struggling writers grades 1st through 4th.
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