About

I have two main objectives in both writing and speaking. First, to enjoy the beauty of the art. Second, to utilize my experience as a freelance writer, author of children's literature, educational and inspirational materials, as well as my experience as an educator, to motivate young readers and writers, aspiring adult writers, and fellow educators. My greatest joy is the opportunity to touch base and speak with those readers and aspiring writers. I travel nationwide as a keynote speaker at educational conferences, book talks, and writing workshops.

Other Works

  • Many Genres, One Craft: Lessons in Writing Popular Fiction (Contributor)

    2011
  • Mealtime Prayers

    2005
  • Newspaper Series, "Heart of the Future"

    1997 - 1998

Awards and Recognition

  • REWARDS for A LETTER to MRS. ROOSEVELT:
  • 1997 Recipient of the Marguerite de Angeli Prize
  • 1999 A Booklist "Top 10 First Novels"
  • 2000 Teacher's Choice, International Reading Association
  • 2000-2001 Keystone to Reading Book Award
  • Nominated for State Book Awards in Pennsylvania, Maine, Massachusetts, Florida, South Carolina, Washington, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, and Tennessee
  • Selected by the Children's Book Council and the National Council of Social Studies as a Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
  • ADDITIONAL REWARDS:
  • 2011 Distinguished Toastmaster
  • 1997 and 1998 First Place Connecticut Press Club Award for Newspaper Series, "Heart of the Future"
  • 2003 Distinguished Alumna Leadership Award, Seton Hill University