Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up in central Wisconsin, where, in my youth, I wrote stories about robots conquering the Moon and trolls lumbering around in the woods behind my parents’ house, and the fact that the trolls were hunting for little boys had nothing to do with my pesky brothers, Jai and Jon. Eventually I moved to Minnesota to pursue a Masters of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Since graduating, I have written more than 60 books for children, including retellings of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and the Perseus and Medusa myth. Most recently, I’m working on choose-your-path books: Treasure Island and Campfire Crisis.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
One of my most recent releases is Campfire Crisis, a story about three children who have to survive a forest fire while hike-in camping with their parents. I grew up camping, thanks to my grandparents, so I wanted to write a story that would help young campers learn some of the ins and outs of camping.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Only that I make writing a habit. It’s something I do almost every day, even if camping in the backwoods.
Over the years, I’ve also learned to take frequent breaks from work. There’s nothing more painful than suffering from writing fatigue, so I’ll get out of my office to weed the garden or take the dog for a walk just to help keep things functioning upstairs.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
JRR Tolkien and Gabriel Garcia Marquez
What are you working on now?
I just wrapped up a dinosaur and a mythology book in National Geographic Kids EVERYTHING series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Throughout Minnesota, I present at young author events, teaching kids how to write and tell stories, and use my own books as examples.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
read lots—that’s probably more important than writing at first.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
In grad school, one of my profs was Terry Davis, author of Vision Quest. After reading one of my stories, he asked me if I even enjoyed writing it. From that day on, I made sure that I enjoy what I’m writing. When a writer is having fun with their work, is shows in the quality.
What are you reading now?
Kid Beowulf, a graphic novel series by Alexis Fajardo.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m going to write a book about dragons
Author Websites and Profiles
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