1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

 

I write books for kids and teens from picture books like I DARE YOU NOT TO YAWN (Candlewick) to my REAL MERMAIDS series (Sourcebooks) for tweens. 

 

I grew up in a really large family on a small island surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean where we had sleepovers on lobster boats, hiked to secret beaches, and got chased by wild cows through forest paths. Many of my books are inspired by the fun times I had growing up with my seven siblings and many cousins and friends.  I’m a compulsive walker and train for half marathons and also love dark chocolate, bacon, and Perrier water (in that order).

 

2. What advice would you give to new authors?

 

First and foremost, writing begets better writing so the mere act of putting words on the page, over and over (and over) again, will help you grow as a writer. Every article or book that’s eventually published represents hundreds and thousands of hours of work that came before it. Do not be discouraged if early work is terrible or not garnering acceptance. Stay the course, do the work, and your writing will improve.

 

3. You grew up on an island in the Atlantic. What is it like for you not living by the water now and do you ever consider moving to some where nearer the ocean?

 

I miss the ocean so much. I love my new town and my wonderful friends but my dream is to someday have a seaside cottage to call my own so I can spend part of my time there. Thankfully, I’m able to visit my childhood village for a few weeks every summer with my family. I look forward to it all winter!

 

4. If you could morph into any sea creature, which would it be and why?

 

An anemone, mostly because I love the way the word sounds.

 

5. Describe your ideal type of day in regards to weather, temp, location, etc.

I’m a spring and fall person because I hate the cold or the sweltering heat. ‘Sweater Weather’ probably describes my ideal temperature best and of course, I’d have to pick an oceanside location for my ‘ideal day’. I’d start off with an hour-long hike near the water, then return to a cozy seaside cottage (notice a theme?) get myself a hot drink and snuggle on the couch with a fuzzy blanket and a good book. Can I also have a crackling fire in the fireplace, please?

 

6. What was one of your favorite books growing up?

 

I’m from a family of ten so books were kind of community property in our house. I remember, though, that my godfather sent me my very own hardcover Trixie Belden for Christmas one year. I cherished that book because it was mine.  All mine!