I’ve always dreamed of becoming an author. I didn’t have any brothers or sisters until I was almost 9 years old. Both my parents are only children, so I’ve never had aunts, uncles or cousins. And I grew up in a neighborhood where there were no other kids. I spent a lot of time by myself. I read a lot…and wrote stories to entertain myself. I never really grew out of that.

I began my writing career by writing for magazines such as Cricket, Spider, Highlights for Children, Children’s Digest, and Child Life. In 1996, I sold my first book – a picture book entitled The Great Tooth Fairy Rip-Off. I’ve gone on to sell 25 additional picture books and novels for children. I’ve also “ghostwritten” 10 Sweet Valley Twins and Boxcar Children books.

My novels Trading Places with Tank Talbott, Sliding Into Home, Do You know the Monkey Man, The Truth About Truman School and The Buddy Files: Case of the Lose Boy have been nominated for children’s choice awards in 18 different states. Trading Places with Tank Talbott won Maryland’s Black-Eyed Susan Award in 2008.  The Buddy Files: Case of the Lose Boy won the 2011 Edgar^® Award for best juvenile mystery published in 2010. I continue to publish books, short stories, plays and educational materials for preschoolers through adults.

My dog Mouse and I are a registered Pet Partner team through Delta Society and we enjoy reading with kids. I also enjoy reading, hiking, biking, Zumba, board games, playing the mandolin and my Toastmasters group. I live in Coralville, Iowa with my husband, son, and assorted pets.

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