Laura Leeson Author Visits
I'm Laura, a former K–12 educator turned children's book author. I write the books I wish had been in my own classroom.
I like to say: "We study math to understand the physical world around us. We learn to read to understand the people around us. And we write because we want others to understand what we think and feel."
This is what I want every student to take away from a visit with me. Before I retired my playground whistle, I had taught every grade from kindergarten to twelfth. I know how to meet students where they are and I know how to get them excited to pick up a pen.
Nella Lace discovers that words on a page can connect her to the people she loves most — and your students will too.
It is genuinely hard to model how children should think about communication, written or otherwise. This is why so many young people struggle to express themselves: they can't do what they were never shown how to do. The Written Adventure of Nella Lace was written to change that. Nella works through five different types of letters, thinking aloud as she figures out exactly what she wants to say and how to say it. The book ends with writing prompts so students can try it for themselves.
A writing workshop that gives every child a voice and a reason to use it.
Every visit is tailored to your school, your classrooms, and the grades I'll be spending the day with. I can do a standard library visit — reading, signing, and Q&A — but what I love most is the writing workshop.
The Writing Workshop — 45 minutes
20 min: Introduction — I introduce myself, the book, and the big idea: writing is how we tell others what we think and feel. We read a portion of The Written Adventure of Nella Lace together, with discussion woven in.
25 min: Guided Writing — Students write their own letter structured off of the template selected by their teacher. I will be there to guide every step of the way. Every child walks away with a letter they have written to someone they love in their own words, saying exactly what they want to say in a way that can be heard.
Visits can be structured for a single classroom, a whole grade, or a full school assembly. I'll work with you to find the format that fits your school best.
What People are Saying
“I really enjoyed how different this kind of story was from many others. Staying connected with others through letter writing is such a great idea for this day and age (as it is a lost art). These are keepsakes for sure! I like how the main character shares her questions as she figures out what to say in each letter type. I love that there are suggestions at the end for writing different kinds of letters, with prompts. Adorable pictures as well!”
Is There a Fee?
My visits are offered at no cost to your school.
In place of a speaking fee, the visit is supported by optional student book pre-sales. A simple order form goes home in advance — families who wish to receive a signed copy ($14.99 paperback) pay before the visit. I work with you to determine the minimum number of pre-sales based on visit size. If your school falls short, we'll find a solution together.
Who is Laura and What is This Book?
Book a Visit!
I'd love to visit your school! Fill out this form and I'll be in touch within two business days.