Where were you born and how has it affected you?
I was born in California, so I am used to sunshine. I think living in California contributed to my positive attitude towards life.
Which of your childhood dreams was the first to die?
Probably being a spy. My ankles crack when I walk, so no matter how hard I tried, my parents heard me coming.
What do you enjoy reading the most?
I love fairytales and fantasy books. Anything with magic and mystical creatures will be on my reading list.
What does it take to write a children's book?
Determination. There are endless challenges that arise when writing a children’s book. It easy to give up, but success comes from pushing through each challenge.
How did you come up with the idea for your book, Santa's Reindeer?
Christmas is my favorite time of year, so I was drawn to the idea of a holiday book. Not many stories focus on the reindeer themselves, so I felt this could be a fun topic.
If given a chance, would you like to be a part of Super Science Squad?
Of course! I love doing science projects and learning. Super Science Squad is all about learning through magical adventures, which is basically my dream come true.
How did you come up with the story of Brinkley, Bella and Mason?
I love magical adventures, and learning... so once I decided to put these two things together, the story kinda wrote itself.
How much do you research while filling your stories with a little education?
Most of my research is on the science side of the story. While the books are filled with fictional adventures, the science experiments are real! I want kids to finish the story and run to get started doing the experiments on their own.
What inspires you to create magical stories filled with lovable characters?
Magic makes a child’s face light up! I love watching the joy and wonder as they fall in love with the characters and the story.
How did your life change when you launched your first book as an Amazon ?
I think it gave me more confidence. Launching my first book was scary, but once it made the best seller list, that’s when I took things to the next level. Now my series, Super Science Squad has 4 books, a YouTube channel, and a whole line of merchandise. It’s kinda crazy!
How do you find time to write books while being surrounded by boys?
Truth be told, writing with the kids around is impossible. It’s impossible to focus with the noise and the chaos. I used to use school hours for my writing, but since the pandemic nights have been my main work time. Luckily, I am a night owl.
What percentage of your daily writing do you end up not using in published works?
My first book has tons of writing that didn’t make the book, but with each book it becomes less. I guess I know what I need now. It’s important to know your audience and only put what that age will need into the book. I want kids to be able to read my books, so it has to be a bit more simple.
Are you working on a new book? Is it going to be a series or a standalone?
I am currently working on a new series that focuses on teaching kids the importance of Social/Emotional skills. So many of these skills are over looked and taken for granted these days.
How has your experience of being associated with AllAuthor been?
All author is a great company. I have found them to be very helpful. One of my covers even made it to the top 10 in a contest for ‘Cover of the Month.’ As an author it is great to have support from companies like AllAuthor, who believe in us little guys!