What originally made you want to become an author?


I actually started out as a playwright, writing plays for children. I’ve always loved children’s literature—but it was theatre that first intrigued me. I was drawn to the characters, the plots, and the thrill of performance.

Over time, I realized that picture books are like mini performances—visual ones you can hold in your hand. That blend of story and rhythm, illustration and emotion, characters and pacing—that’s what drew me in and keeps me writing today!

Plus, I love being with kids and teens. I used to teach in elementary schools, and now, as a professor, I interact with children and youth less often. Being a children’s author is the perfect way to stay connected, to engage with young readers, and to share stories that matter.

In your opinion, what makes a great story?

A great story is emotionally resonant. It moves you. It might make you laugh out loud, whisper the words, act silly, or dig deeper into a feeling or the situated context. 

A great story shapes you and your ideas. It lingers long after the last page. 

Describe a typical work day in your life as an author. Do you have any unusual writing habits?

A typical day starts with emails, followed by writing, editing, and—more often than not—a bit more writing. I also spend time preparing for school visits, promoting books, and revising manuscripts (again and again!). Every two weeks, I meet with a group of fellow authors to critique each other’s work. It sounds intimidating, but it’s actually kind of fun—and it always gives me fresh ideas for revision.

When I can, I sneak away to the library or a bookstore. It’s not part of my daily routine, but it’s one of my favorite things to do. I read books by other authors, take notes, and play with new ideas. Honestly, the best days are when I get lost in a stack of books and come home buzzing with inspiration—or when I’m in front of an audience: sharing stories, creativity, and a love for the arts.

As for unusual habits? I definitely overwrite my first drafts. While picture books are typically around 400 words, my early drafts can stretch to 1,000 or even 2,000! I like to pour all my ideas onto the page, then slowly carve the story down—like sculpting. I believe the masterpiece is hidden inside the mess. My job is to find it, shape it, and polish it until it shines.

What messages or themes do you hope readers take away from your book?

I hope they laugh. I hope they act out the voices and scenes. I hope they engage, reread, and come back to the book again and again. 

And most of all, I hope my book becomes a beloved part of their treasured collection.

What advice do you have for kids who are interested in writing?

  • Write. Write. Write. The more you write, the better you get. And the better you get… the more you know, and the more you grow.
  • Read lots. Great writers are great readers. Mentor texts are hidden gems, just waiting for you at your local library.
  • Edits and rejections are part of the process. Nothing amazing ever comes from easy-peasy, quick and simple.
  • Go to conferences. Learn as much as you can, network, and have fun.
  • You’re the author—the boss of your own story. You get the final say!