Did I visit the settings of the books for my research? Yes, I did! For each book in the Maylie series, I started by revisiting my trips to the book locations. That was the foundation of the series idea. To write about the places I have actually been. I have been to...

What do I hope readers take away from my books? That no matter what dreams you have and challenges you face they can be overcome whether it be finishing a first story or facing the uncertainty of a new experience or a bully. You have to believe in yourself and...

Outside reading and writing, do you have any hobbies or passions? I’ve had quite a few hobbies over the years. Some have stayed longer in my world than others—fencing, scuba diving, movie extra, amateur boxing. I also ate a termite on a dare while trekking through a...

Did any of my favorite authors when I was a kid influence my writing? Ever since I'd say it is a mix of authors and their character who influence me. I really love the character of Mr. Popper in "Mr. Popper's Penguins" in the book by Richard and Florence Atwater I...

When did you know you wanted to be an author? Ever since I could hold a pencil or pen, I've been a writer. It started with scribbles that were in no way words on paper, but I'd point to them and read what it said aloud. I would make up stories and create little books...