I am a children’s book author/illustrator. I remember what it was like to struggle to read, and then discovering worlds, experiences and perspectives within books that broadened my understanding and imagination. My life is richer because of books, and I want to share that treasure with kids. I’m deeply committed to creating artful stories that are full of heart, for kids and their adults to enjoy together.
When I was young, my favorite things to do were draw and read. I remember writing and illustrating a book in 2nd grade and proudly sharing it with a Kindergarten class. Now that I’ve “grown up,” books are still in my heart. I’ve added other loves; but the elements of story and storytelling, and the magic of sharing these loves, are at the core.
After earning a BFA in Illustration, I worked in graphic design, children’s storybook multimedia, and e-newsletters. Currently I work at a public school, in the office.
My artwork is done in different media. I work in acrylic, gouache, pencil, gelli prints, and also digitally.
Michigan is my home: land of amazing great lakes, dunes, beautiful fall days and adventurous winters. I enjoy hiking, biking and camping with my family, as well as playing clarinet, practicing yoga, reading, and puzzling over Sudoku with a warm cup of tea.
Inspirations
Animals inspire me, I am fascinated by all the unique qualities and capabilities of animals, especially quirky or vulnerable ones.
Friendship stories: I feel like Frog and Toad, and Elephant and Piggy are my friends, too.
Nature: I love a good long hike in the woods.
I’m also inspired by my kids and all children. I love to watch them learning about the world, asking questions, and seeing the ideas that they come up.
As a member of SCBWI and 12×12, I have met so many talented authors and illustrators. The generosity and tenacity of these groups challenges me to work harder. I have attended several workshops, retreats and conferences. Storystorm is fantastic as well as Sketchbook Revival. I am so thankful for these networks, and my awesome critique groups – rock on writers and illustrators!
Things I loved as a kid:
- Our sandbox
- Building blocks
- Jumping rope, riding my bike, sledding, building snow animals
- Making chalk cities on our driveway
- My pet parakeet
- Whistling
- My blanket with the silky edge
- spaghetti
- stickers – sticker collection!
- Staying at my cousins’ houses
- Legos
- making origami boxes
- making a secret language with my friend
- Star Wars
- Drawing: my aunt always kept us supplied with computer paper that had green stripes on one side and holes on each end. It was large and delightful, and I spent hours drawing and making up stories to go with my drawings
What I didn’t like:
- Being teased
- cucumbers, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes (I was very picky!)
- scary movies
I remember struggling so hard to read, and being so frustrated!
But I kept trying and improving and I was encouraged by my teachers and kept reading and reading.
Books became some of my favorite gifts, and still are one of my favorite things to give as gifts.
My favorite books when I was young:
All Don Freeman books, especially Dandelion and Corduroy
The Very Hungry Caterpillar- I first heard it read on the library steps at school
The Snowy Day- I wanted to keep a snowball too
Where the Wild Things Are
Mercer Mayer Little Critter books
Richard Scarry books
Frog and Toad
Green Eggs and Ham, (didn’t change me from being a picky eater)
My Friendly Giraffe, a personalized book. It had my address, my friend’s names, my name, and the giraffe’s name was my name backwards.