Why I Started Writing:

I started writing just for the sheer fun of it.  I have loved books since I was a child and admired authors who could make people laugh until the tears came or sob uncontrollably as the hero dies. To write like that!  My first attempt was not an epic novel but rather a gentle children’s book that came about because my three-year-old asked me, “Mama, what sound does a butterfly make?”  Each of my books since then have brought great joy to me in the creation of them, and even greater joy in reading them to young children, whether they are my own grandchildren or a classroom of eager and excited young listeners.

Authors Who Have Influenced Me:

The first author to impact me greatly was Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, author of The Yearling.  The wonder of being transported—I was there, my own heart was broken!—captured me. 

When I first read Theodor Seuss Geisel (Doctor Seuss Books) my children looked at me a bit confused because I was laughing so hard they could hardly understand what I was reading!  I loved his free and easy way with words, bending them and creating them to fit his rhyme, combining silly nonsense with making perfect sense.

I also admire Deborah Diesen, The Pout-Pout Fish, for challenging young minds with her choice of words and Audrey and Don Wood, King Bidgood's in the Bathtub, for their ability to combine beautiful art with engaging stories.

Books I Have Written:

My first published book, What Do You Call an Ant? is a lower-grade riddle book with interesting ant facts interspersed throughout and a surprise ending that introduces young readers to homonyms.

My second book, What Did You Bring Me?, is done in rhyme and is meant to help young readers learn that the best presents may not come in wrapping paper or even cost money.  The best presents come from the heart and you can start giving at any age.

I have written two other children's books which are not yet published:

What Sound Does a Butterfly Make? a rhyming book that engages the readers with the fun of animal noises.  It subtly promotes a self-esteem lesson for the shy, quiet child.

How Much Gold Can an Octopus Hold? is a rhyming adventure of Ollie the Octopus as he seeks his fortune.  He finds it but then has to choose between his gold or his family—which one will it be?

What I'm Working On Now:

Since many teachers have asked for more books like What Do You Call an Ant?, ideas are floating around my head and onto my notebook for another book having to do with having fun with words and the English language.