Long bio: I was born in Phoenix, Arizona, although my family didn't stay there long. My father served in the Air Force and we moved around a bit. Honolulu, Hawaii was one of my favorite places we were stationed. I'll never forget the storytellers who visited my school or the joy of being able to boogie board nearly year-round. 

When we moved back to San Antonio, Texas, I missed the Aloha State, but books served as a great distraction. Around that same time, I wrote my first book, Fuzzy the Fox. I tried to write my first novel in high school. The story had a strong beginning and a promising ending, but the middle of the book ruined it all. Even though the book was not a success, the experience taught me much about the writing process, especially about the importance of setting goals and revising.

In college, I took a children's literature course that inspired me to write books for children and teens. I eventually went on to graduate from Hollins University with an M.A. in children's literature. In addition to my book publications, I've written magazine stories and articles for Highlights for Children and Highlights High Five among other. I have stories featured in several anthologies.

While I'm passionate about writing, I'm also passionate about teaching and school visits. I've taught a graduate children's literature writing course at St. Edward's University and previously instructed at the Institute of Children's Literature. I edit projects through Reedsy.

I love to read, and some of my favorite authors are: Mildred Taylor, David LaRochelle, S.E. Hinton, Karen Hesse, Judy Blume, Avi, Eoin Colfer, and Christopher Paul Curtis. The list could go on and on!

I live north of Austin with my supportive husband, Michael, our daughter Ava, as well as elderly dog named Nike and a corn snake named Ari. 

We all love books!

When not writing, I enjoy traveling and have a goal to travel to as many state and national parks as possible.