Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
This is the first book that I’ve written. Well, actually I haven’t written it by myself at all. Two of my children co-wrote it with me – Tobias aged 11 and Althea aged 7.
I work in Student Support and am studying to become a Speech Pathologist. Writing is very much on the side…
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
‘Sienna’s First Day at School’ is the first in series called the ‘Mergirl Sienna’ series. Althea really is the inspiration behind the book. Like many girls her age, she has a love of mermaids. I was seeing mermaids pop up in her drawings and in her imaginative play. During the school holidays, I wondered if she would like to write a story about mermaids. She was keen as mustard, her ideas started to flow. Soon into the project, Tobias jumped on the band wagon too and that began our collaborative story writing!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The story writing has become something we are doing in our down time at home… whether it be lazing around or scribbling ideas at the dinner table.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Perhaps the biggest influence behind this book is Sally Rippin. In particular, her Billie B Brown series. Her simple, engaging text for young readers with short manageable chapters.
What are you working on now?
We have nearly finished the second book in the Mergirl Sienna series. I’m encouraged that the enthusiasm has spread in our family with my 9 year old son, Brandon, deciding to join in.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
So far our most productive method of promoting the book has been the Facebook Group called: Free Kindle and Nook ebooks for Readers
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just get in and give it a go!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
If you never ever try, you will never ever know.
What are you reading now?
The book of Hebrews in the Bible… it tells the story of how God has been working through the ages to bring about salvation.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Well, we are going to finish off Book 2 in the Mergirl Series… we seem to be going strong, so it is likely that Book 3 will be on the cards shortly!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Mmmm well most likely the Bible and the Harry Potter series…
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