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 soon moved to Texas. Honolulu, Hawaii was our most exotic station. I'll never forget the excitement of winning a hula competition. Those who know me now would never guess I had that kind of coordination.

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 revision.

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, my daughter, and my dog Nike. 

We all love books!

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