Nice to meet you!

I'm Maribeth. Welcome!

Every life is a story, isn’t it?

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!

I Love My Family!

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.

I Love My Grandkids!

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!

I Love Nature!

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!

I Love Books!

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.

What folks are saying

Testimonials

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School Visits

Get Inspired

School visits are the best! I believe they can be a memorable time of learning, inspiration and fun for students. From preschoolers to high schoolers, it is a thrill to encourage kids through teens to read and write through sharing my own story. From large group presentations, to writing workshop sessions, to individual writing consultations with students, I am eager to meet the particular needs of your students.

Get Interactive

Using props and other visuals, I give students a chance to explore what it means to be a writer. I also show the process of how a simple idea one day can develop into a book a few years later through both the writing and revision process. The presentations are highly interactive, geared specifically to each grade level, and include a time for questions. We have an exciting time together!

Get Information »

Contact me today for more information on school visits, book signing events or speaking engagements. I’d love to come and visit with your school, group or organization. We can also schedule a virtual visit via Skype! Lesson plans and discussion questions are also available upon request. I look forward to working with you!

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    Books
    Big Daddy, Frog Wrestler

    Big Daddy, Frog Wrestler

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    Little Bunny’s Pacifier Plan

    Little Bunny’s Pacifier Plan

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    Staying Safe Around Fire

    Staying Safe Around Fire

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    Staying Safe on Bikes

    Staying Safe on Bikes

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    Staying Safe at Playgrounds

    Staying Safe at Playgrounds

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    Staying Safe Near Water

    Staying Safe Near Water

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    Staying Safe on the Streets

    Staying Safe on the Streets

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    Staying Safe at School

    Staying Safe at School

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    Little Bunny’s Cool Tool Set

    Little Bunny’s Cool Tool Set

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    Latest Updates

    News

    The Purple Puffy Coat Coming This Fall

    The Purple Puffy Coat Coming This Fall

    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.

    The Gingerbread Pup Releasing Soon

    The Gingerbread Pup Releasing Soon

    Look for another rascally fractured fairy tale soon to come from Random House… “The Gingerbread Pup!”

    Kaia and Bees Releases This March

    Kaia and Bees Releases This March

    “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.