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A dirt road that climbs a long, steady hill leads to the home were I grew up. You can see Lake Superior in the distance from the hilltop. Tall evergreens and clustered poplar trees guard the driveway. I spent hours playing in the woods there. Living in the country helped forge my lifelong love for quiet places, books, gardens and writing.

My first published work appeared in the local newspaper while I was in junior high school. I was hooked.

My first writing job was as an advertising copywriter at the Minnesota Daily newspaper while I was studying at the School of Journalism at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities. I worked at an advertising agency for a few years. Then I launched into full-time freelance writing, determined to write award-winning ads. I did (but not alone—the art director never gets enough credit).

About 10 years ago, one of my clients (who happened to be a publisher) asked if I wanted to write nonfiction children’s books about dance. I jumped at the chance. Since then, I have developed, researched and written more than 60 books for that publisher and others. I’m very excited for the release of Storm Codes, a children’s fiction book set in Duluth, Minnesota, that honors Great Lakes sailors and their families.

I still write nonfiction books as well as marketing and advertising materials. Schools, libraries, Girl Scouts and other organizations have invited me to speak. I enjoy that very much. I’ve also led workshops and writing groups, including one for Lake Superior Writers.

In addition, I have served on the board of directors for a Spanish-immersion charter school and helped write a U.S. Department of Education grant for the school that totaled more than $800,000 over three years.

My husband and I live with our two wonderful children near Minneapolis, Minnesota—an easy two hours from the shores of Lake Superior.