UPCOMING EVENTS:
- Bowers Museum – Storytime in the Galleries – Saturday, July 25 – 10:30 – 12 (Address: 2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, California 92706)
RSVP your free tix here!
Storytime in the Galleries will include free copies of Helena’s featured book Shoes Off, Please (while supplies last!) and free General Admission to the galleries. A reading in the galleries will be followed by a simple, fun art project.
Subscribe to Helena’s (infrequent) newsletter to be updated on new events.
RECORDINGS OF SELECT PRIOR EVENTS:
For a good sense of Helena’s presentations, please check out her NPR interview, the video recording with the Los Angeles Public Library, or her video recording with the San Francisco Public Library & Litquake.
AUDIENCE FEEDBACK:
“You did a great job with the kids and your presentation was amazing! You are definitely operating within your life’s calling.” —Romondo L. (Administrator, Los Angeles Public Library)
“I really enjoyed having you at Seoul Foreign School. Honestly you were one of my best author visits during my 20 years at SFS. The kids still talk about you.” –Janet H., (School Librarian, Seoul Foreign School)
“From our youngest TK, Kindergarten, and 1st grade students to our often hard-to-
impress 6th graders, Helena captured every student’s attention with her warm presence and engaging storytelling. It was remarkable to see our little ones so focused and absorbed, hanging onto every word she shared. Even more impressive was how our 6th grade students (who don’t typically gravitate toward picture books) were equally engaged. Helena has a natural ability to connect with students across all age groups. She knows exactly how to speak to each audience in a way that is relatable, respectful, and inspiring…many students felt comfortable sharing their own experiences and personal connections to her stories. It was truly a meaningful experience for everyone involved. We are so grateful for her visit!” —Dr. Nuvia N. (Principal, Rio Vista Elementary School, Canyon County)
“Helena’s visit to our school was an absolute treat. She spoke to the youngest students in a thoughtful, sincere, age-appropriate way that many adults can’t manage. Helena presented her story of how she grew into a writer in a way that helped kids understand the combination of hard work, joyful creativity, and desire to give back to the people who have always helped and loved her. We were so happy to have had the honor of hosting this visit!” —Rachel Anne M. (Librarian, St. Matthews Parish School, Pacific Palisades)
“Helena gave a wonderful presentation to the 1st through 4th grade students at my school! The students were fascinated to learn about the history of the Korean turtle ship. They enjoyed hearing about her writing process and learning how The Turtle Ship was created.” —Nicky M. (Head Librarian, Carlthorp School, Santa Monica)
“I attended the book reading you did several weeks ago at the Palms Rancho Library. My older son, age five, adores your book! I am the ‘mystery’ reader at my son’s school tomorrow and plan to surprise him by reading this book. What a wonderful book. Just wanted to let you know the joy it has brought our family…and hopefully more children tomorrow!” —Emily P. (Audience Member, Palms Rancho Park branch of the Los Angeles Public Library)
“Your story was truly inspiring! I know you have planted a special seed in our students’ hearts. We hope to see you again with your new book.” —Rebecca K. (Teacher, Monte Vista School)
“Just had to send a huge thank you for your visit today! Your presentation was so engaging, relatable and motivational – it was awesome to see the class so excited and eager to ask questions. You beautifully and effortlessly wove everything together, and I’m pretty sure you inspired a bunch of future authors.” — Diane U. (Parent, Darien Schools, Connecticut)
“Castlewood is so thankful for your virtual visit, and we keep saying how perfect it was! There were even classes who had recess/Friday fun time and they did not even mind missing it! They love the book and were so engaged with your visit.” — Heather S. (Teacher, PS 186 Castlewood, New York)
“THANK YOU so much for an amazing visit! Our students and teachers really enjoyed your session, and they particularly liked how you shared your journey in a storytelling manner. One of the students asked me if you were my friend! Another one of our teachers said she was moved to tears listening to your presentation.” — Gillian P. (Literacy Specialist, Gyeonggi Suwon International School, South Korea)
“We were so fortunate to have you visit the school. It was the highlight of the week. You’re so talented and have such a nice way with the kids. We can now add our time with you to our 2022 memory book!” — Sherrie L. (Librarian, Royle Elementary School, Connecticut)
“The messages you shared resonated with both our kids and parents. My favorite moment was when a student said, ‘I’m Korean!’ We all know representation matters but it’s moments like this that truly illustrate the importance of making sure everyone is seen.” — Stephanie L. (Assistant Head of School, Mirman School, Los Angeles)
