WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE CHILDREN'S BOOKS?
Children’s books were my first doorway into possibility. They were colorful, comforting, and full of messages that stayed with me even as I grew up. I wanted to write stories that feel the same way for today’s kids—playful, wise, and full of heart.
HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA FOR THE ADVENTURES OF SQUEAKY THE GOOSE?
Squeaky came to me as a character first inspired by my late brother-in-law, this curious, quirky, brave little goose with a big heart and an even bigger imagination. I loved the idea of a character who “squeaks” when excited or nervous and isn’t embarrassed about it, someone who embraces what makes them different.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WRITING PROCESS?
My process always starts with emotion. For each Squeaky story, I choose a theme like bravery, kindness, trying new things, or overcoming fear and build an adventure around it. I imagine how a child might feel in that situation. After that, I shape the story, refine the dialogue, and make sure the message is gentle, accessible, and woven in naturally.
WHAT MESSAGES DO YOU HOPE CHILDREN TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR BOOKS?
Most of all, I want kids to see themselves in Squeaky, brave in their own way, lovable exactly as they are, and capable of turning everyday moments into adventures. But bigger than that I would love children to know that although new experiences can be scary, they can also be filled with growth, fun, and adventure.