I have been writing stories since kindergarten and began writing for kids over 25 years ago when my own children were young. Lots of picture books and three children/four grandchildren later, I enjoy not only the process of story writing but also meeting kids and adults who like to write.
There is no bigger thrill than talking with a breathless 10-year-old who tells me, “I want to be an author when I grow up!” That excited look in their eyes reminds me that doing what you love to do, and leaning into how you are uniquely wired, is what makes work interesting, fun and rewarding.
Read on to learn more about me, my work and much more. I wish you all the best as you do your own writing, reading and creating!
We have three grown kids: Adam, who is married to Janelle — they have a son named Leo and a daughter named Della; Hanna, who is married to Noah — they have a son named Abe, and a daughter named Layla. Our youngest is Will, and he is married to Nouran. My late husband Darwin was a retired firefighter and was not only my best friend, but my very best editor too.
Most of my stories originated from raising children, and now, through playing an active role in the lives of our little grandchildren. As a long-time volunteer with children and teens, I’ve never ceased to be amazed by the deep, perceptive and optimistic way they interpret the world. Kids, as always, inspire me!
Our family took on the challenge of beekeeping, and enjoyed this fascinating hobby for several years. The stings aren’t fun, but the work that honeybees do in pollinating is absolutely essential, and we were thrilled to play a tiny part in it. We also loved harvesting honey! I am so happy any time I can be in the woods, on a trail, on a river, or watching a sunrise or sunset. Nature has a way of changing us, healing us, and giving us all sorts of creative ideas!
Does that surprise you? I grew up in the library and reading was a priority at home—it was with our own kids, too! Give me a good book from either the library or an independent bookstore, some nature and little children—well, my heart just might explode.
Have you ever been given a gift that wasn’t quite right? A new book, “The Purple Puffy Coat” is about this very conundrum and will be published this fall by Candlewick Press.
Look for another rascally fractured fairy tale soon to come from Random House… “The Gingerbread Pup!”
“Kaia and the Bees” will be published in March 2020, and the Spanish edition, “Kaia y las Abejas” will launch at the same time! Find them at your favorite bookstore this Spring.
