Being a mother and grandmother gives me a long range perspective on things, I suppose. The world is a beautiful place where we all impact each other, our planet, world peace and the hope of shared prosperity. I think we can have rich, satisfying lives and enjoy the wonders around us while leaving the world better for others. That is the foundation of my writing.
Part of the fun of writing and illustrating books is the research and all the fascinating places that it takes me. From Findlay, Ohio's Mazza Museum to Rocky Mountain National Park or Highlands Center for Natural History in Prescott, Arizona, there are new things to learn. Curiosity, I think, is one of the most important qualities of anyone who hopes to create books for children.
Writing for Children
I write and illustrate for kids because I want to encourage their creativity, sense of wonder, passion for learning, love of nature, curiosity, joy and idealism. I want children to believe that any dream they work toward can be reached with patience and perseverance. I want to meet them at a heart level, encouraging them to be compassionate, open-minded and fair in all they do. I believe we all have more power for good than we use, and I hope to encourage children to become people who make a difference in the world.
At the same time, I want them to understand you can't find a prince by kissing frogs. This I demonstrate here.
At book signing
Dr. Mallett was the founder of the Mazza Museum of international art from children's books.
From the time I was very small I was drawing birds.
Sylvester Allred and I sign books at Arizona Kidney Foundation Luncheon. Syl is the author of Rascal and several other books I have illustrated.
My constant support on every project is my husband, Doug. He is a partner in research and my favorite photographer.
Highlands Center for Natural History, Prescott, AZ