CHILDREN'S AUTHOR

 
As a child I didn’t have many books in my home, so I didn’t become an avid reader until later. My love for picture books began as an early childhood teacher. Two of my friends opened a day care center in Richmond, Virginia. It was an innovative school where creativity was encouraged. It was then that I first read Dr Seuss books, as well as many other incredible authors. I loved reading these fabulous books aloud.. I loved the rhythm,, the illustrations, the luscious language, and most of all I loved the kids’ reaction. Their intent engagement, their laughter, their endless questions had me hooked.. After teaching day care, I moved back to NYC, and joined the ranks as a NYC teacher. I had the experience of working in the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods in America, and met some amazing kids.

I became a serious writer while doing research for my thesis for a Masters in education. While some dread the task of writing a thesis. I loved every minute. It was then I knew, writing had to become part of my life.

Since leaving teaching, I have become a part of a wonderful community of kidlit writers on Facebook. I have joined critique groups, taken writing classes and joined SCBWI. I have written several picture books as well as a picture book biography about Miles Davis, whose music I fell in love with when I was 10 years old.

NEWS
My debut picture book is about Miles Davis, the jazz great who developed a unique sound. on his trumpet. The story shows how Miles was influenced by his environment and how he was determined to play his trumpet like no other. I am very excited that Keith Henry Brown, who is an avid jazz lover will illustrate my book THE BIRTH OF THE COOL: HOW JAZZ GREAT MILES DAVIS FOUND HIS SOUND. I have been working with my editor, Charlotte Wenger to create a wonderful reading experience for kids 8-12. It will be published by Page Street Kids in Spring 2019.

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llustration by Ruth Mary Hallock

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