What inspired you to write children’s books, and how did you first get started in the field?
My inspiration began with my grandson’s first camping trip. He came back so excited, telling me all about catching his first fish, exploring the woods, and spending time with family and friends. That pure childhood joy sparked something in me. I started writing down his memories, and before I knew it, I had a rhyming story. That became I Love To Go Camping, my very first book. (that later became my first self-published book, John's Camping Adventures), It was deeply personal and creatively fulfilling, and it led me into a career I never expected to fall in love with.
How do you balance fun, engaging storytelling with educational themes like STEAM and SEL in your books?
It always starts with character and story. If kids are engaged with adventure, the learning follows naturally. In Rylee the Young Rocketeer, STEAM is embedded through her curiosity about space. In Amelia Ophelia The Beekeeper by the Sea, I weave in science and kindness through the world of bees. I never start with the lesson; I let it emerge through the journey.
What do you hope children take away from your books, both in terms of knowledge and personal growth?
I hope they feel inspired to be curious, kind, and confident in who they are. Whether it’s learning something new about the planets or understanding that being different is a strength, I want each story to leave a little spark of knowledge, self-worth, or imagination.
In Who’s New At Lou’s Zoo. What message do you hope children take away about the power of working together, acceptance and supporting one another?
That we’re stronger when we help each other. In the Lou’s Zoo Series, the kindness shown by the zoo animals reminds kids that even when someone new or different arrives, compassion and teamwork can create a welcoming space. That’s a message I hope sticks with them.
In what ways do you think children's literature can help foster empathy and understanding among young readers?
Children’s books are often the first place kids experience another point of view. Through stories, they see what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes, whether it’s a worried rhino in Lou’s Zoo and Winston Too or a shy pumpkin in Rylee’s Unique Pumpkins in Pumpkinville. When kids emotionally connect with characters, empathy naturally follows.
How do you approach creating diverse characters, and why do you think it’s important for children to see themselves represented in books?
I believe every child deserves to feel seen. That’s why my characters reflect a range of personalities, emotions, and experiences, even when they’re animals or pumpkins! It’s not just about physical diversity; it’s about different ways of thinking, feeling, and growing. I want kids to know it’s okay to be different and to celebrate that, as well as to accept one another for who they are.
Were there any challenges or surprises in writing Rylee the Young Rocketeer series that you hadn’t expected when you first started?
The biggest surprise was how much research I’d need to make the story fun and accurate! Even though it’s imaginative, I wanted the space facts to be correct. Finding the balance between creativity and STEM accuracy took time, but it paid off because kids love learning through Rylee’s journey.
Secrets of Hawthorne Manor is filled with cryptic clues and spectral allies. How did you balance the eerie, suspenseful atmosphere with the need for moments of lightheartedness or warmth?
That balance was key. I wanted Secrets of Hawthorne Manor to feel mysterious but not too scary for young readers. I used moments of humor, especially through the kids’ friendships and ghostly interactions, to keep the story grounded in warmth. It’s about wonder, not fear. The spooky elements are there to spark curiosity, not nightmares.
What is your favorite part of the writing process, and how do you keep the work fun and inspiring for yourself?
I love brainstorming and character development phases, when anything is possible. But what keeps it fun is thinking about how a child will react: Will they laugh here? Feel brave there? Or see themselves in the character. I often test ideas with my grandkids and use their feedback as inspiration.
As a middle-grade book, Secrets of Hawthorne Manor tackles themes like bravery, friendship, and uncovering the truth. Why do you think these themes resonate so strongly with children aged 9–12?
This age group is starting to see the world in more complex ways. They’re asking deeper questions about identity, fairness, and courage. A book like Hawthorne Manor mirrors that journey, through mysterious clues and hidden truths, the characters grow in ways readers can relate to.
What advice would you give to parents or educators who want to encourage a love of reading in children?
Let kids choose! Offer them stories that match their interests, whether it’s animals, space, or adventure. Reading together, talking about characters and the message, or even acting out scenes, can make reading a joyful experience, not a chore. When kids feel emotionally connected to a story, they’re hooked.
Do you have any specific rituals or habits that help you stay motivated and focused while writing?
I usually start my day with a quiet walk and/or a cup of coffee while brainstorming. I keep a notebook nearby for random ideas. And I try to write in short bursts, it keeps the energy fresh. When I hit a creative block, I discuss story ideas with my husband or grandkids, I take a break, usually outdoors, gardening, or call a friend, and that’s often when inspiration strikes again.
What is the most rewarding feedback you’ve received from a child, parent, or educator about your books?
I received a letter from a student after her teacher shared my Rylee the Young Rocketeer and Rylee’s Rover Goes to Mars, which touched me as a writer. Elliot shared that she loved the story about space. She encouraged me to write more books about girls in space and sports. Another said Lou’s Zoo helped their shy child feel more confident. That kind of feedback, that a story encouraged a child to dream bigger or feel seen, is everything to me.
What upcoming projects or themes are you excited to explore in your future books?
I’m working on a few exciting stories: A second book in the Hawthorne Manor Series, and Too Much Pizza for Pyrus, a silly but heartfelt story about healthy choices. I also have a few holiday book ideas, all with themes of friendship, self-esteem, and curiosity.
Finally, what has your experience been like being part of the Allauthor, and how has it influenced your journey as a writer?
Allauthor has helped expand my reach and connected me with a wonderful community of readers and fellow writers. Their tools and support have been especially helpful for promoting my books, and I’m grateful to be part of a platform that celebrates authors at every stage.
