Born in New Orleans and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan, I have always been a writer—letters, newsletters, poems, and parodies–long before I began writing books. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Smith College, I spent many years as an early childhood teacher and center director. My work with young children sparked a fascination with the books they loved and inspired me to begin writing for them.
I’m the author of ten children’s books. My latest, HAMMERS, DRILLS, AND WRENCHES (Illustrated by David Slonim, published by Candlewick Press), launched in July 2026. It’s a companion to DIGGER, DOZER, DUMPER (also Slonim/Candlewick), which celebrates young children’s enduring fascination with construction vehicles.
I also wrote Weaving the Literacy Web: Creating Curriculum Based on Books Children Love (Redleaf Press) for educators and co-authored Nothing Rhymes With Orange (Perigee), a rhyming dictionary for poets and songwriters.
Throughout my career, I’ve presented at local, state, and national conferences on early childhood development, early literacy, and the craft of writing. Along the way, I’ve written freelance educational materials for parents and early childhood professionals, edited an early childhood website, and lived on a small farm outside Ann Arbor with my family and a lively assortment of cows, horses, ponies, pigs, and dogs.
For the past thirteen years, I’ve served as Communications Director for a local public school district, where I enjoy helping the district connect with students, families, staff, and the community through thoughtful, effective communication. I’m also an avid gardener, photographer, and amateur birdwatcher who considers spotting a bluebird on a sunny morning an especially good start to the day.
Whether I’m writing for children, educators, or the broader community, I’m drawn to stories that celebrate curiosity, resilience, humor, and the joy of discovering something new. And, of course, I continue to write. Stay tuned!