About Me

(Read Official Author Bio)

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

I loved to draw and paint from an early age, and being an artist was always my top response to that question. In college, I received an associate degree in art. However, being the practical sort (meaning I needed to make money), I went on to do other things with my career. But I still draw and paint for my own pleasure.

Another creative outlet I always loved is writing. Even back in second grade, I wrote and illustrated “How I Spent My Summer Vacation.” I wrote my first “book” Through the Years of My Life for a school assignment at the ripe old age of 10. Funny, but I found plenty to write about “my life so far.”

While furthering my education and working different jobs (mechanical drafter and designer, project manager, and finally business owner with my husband), I started freelance writing on the side.

My first official publication was a restaurant review column for a local newspaper. Of course, I loved that job! But when I published articles for various children’s magazines, I realized I’d found my niche, writing for children and teens—who I think are the best audiences a writer could have.

What I want to do with my stories is entertain, but also to bring to kids the feelings books gave me when I was young, the worlds they opened, the things they taught, the feelings they expressed.

No matter what new paths I may travel down, I see my writing as a lifelong joy and commitment.

I was born in Akron, Ohio and moved to California when I was 5 years old. I now live in Santa Cruz with my husband, Charlie, and dog, Ginger.

I was usually the last one out of the pool or ocean (I grew up in Southern California, a half-hour’s drive to the beach). I still love the water!

All dressed up for Easter: Mike, me, A.J. and Pamela.

Here I am my senior year in high school. I had fun in high school, but couldn’t wait to be on my own.

Halloween is my favorite holiday. This picture was taken at a party when I was in my 20s.

Charlie and I were married in 1993. My how time flies!