Born in Chicago, Illinois, which is your most cherished memory?
I lived in a suburb called Arlington Heights. My dog didn’t like the snow. We tried using my socks since I was only three and even bought her little red boots. Thus, when we were outside making snowmen, she didn’t join in.
What developed your love of reading began at a young age?
My mom and older sisters were avid readers. I remember hearing the story, Harold and the Purple Crayon, and wished I could draw things on the wall and go on adventures. Of course, I never tried.
How often did you visit the local library located a few short blocks?
I went to the library at least once a week and sometimes more. I loved having so many choices to read.
Which valuable lessons did you learn while growing up with dogs, parakeets, turtles, chickens, ducks, and other critters?
Animals are funny, unpredictable, and have unique personalities. Our mallard duck, Charlie, would quack and quack when it was feeding time. My mom used to open the back door when my dad came home so she could run several laps in the yard. My parakeet, Foxy, would fly onto my finger when I opened her cage door.
How would you describe your experience of teaching first-grade students?
First graders are little sponges. It was exciting seeing a child learn to read, but my favorite part was teaching them to write creative stories.
What inspired the story of your book, Kurious Katz and the Christmas Tree?
I was looking through photos of my cats destroying the Christmas tree. I remember that they would sometimes fight inside and knock down ornaments. Needless to say, we couldn’t have any fragile ornaments.
How did you come up with the character of Dusty Mann in "Time to Save a Cowboy"?
I fell in love with time travel when I read Constance O’Day-Flannery’s A Time for Love. My favorite time period is the 1890’s. A cowboy named Dusty seemed to fit for the high desert in California.
What do you enjoy the most about writing about strong female characters in unusual settings?
I think every woman wants to be strong. Since I have a vivid imagination the idea of time travel or a Cupid realm appealed to me.
Who was the first reader that reached out to you? What did they say and how did you respond?
When one of my readers told me they loved my book, it made me happy. I emailed her and told her she made my day.
When are you most satisfied with a book or piece of writing? Do you often edit things OUT of your books?
I love the excitement of writing the beginning. There are so many possibilities. About editing out parts of my book, I meet monthly with my critique partner. She can be critical about things that don’t work. I have no problem editing them out.
Since how long have you been attending water aerobics classes?
I’ve been attending water aerobics classes for about 15 years. The water is so refreshing.
As a tutor, what's the most memorable class that you've had, and what impact did it have on you?
I loved doing science experiments with my classes. Counting pumpkin seeds, it always surprised me that the bigger pumpkins had less seeds. I think it’s important to keep a open mind and always continue learning.
When writing novels, is it better to have daily time-spent-writing goals or words-written goals?
It’s much better to try and write words. Sometimes, I meet my goals. Sometimes I don’t.
Have you been able to read more books during quarantine?
Actually, I started listening to audio books. I am addicted.
How has AllAuthor helped you in the promotion of your books? Would you recommend it to your family and friends?
I love the seasonal mockups. They have been useful for ads, Facebook banners, and Instagram. I have recommended AllAuthor to other authors.
