I grew up in and around Seattle, Washington where I went on many outdoor adventures with my family and friends.  My favorite activity as a child was reading. In fourth grade I was too embarrassed to admit that, but now I'm proud of it. 

After getting a degree in English from Reed College, I got my masters in education and taught kindergarten for six years in Philadelphia.  Because I love books and kids and being a student, I also got an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts.  I've been a children's bookseller, worked in libraries, reviewed children's books for newspapers, and taught a children's lit course at Arcadia University.  I worked for Children's Literacy Initiative for 14 years, most recently as their Manager of Books and Materials.

I hope I will always have the privilege to do work connected to reading, writing, and helping young children do both.