SCBWI and more..

I have been a member of the SCBWI since 2004.  I have attended a number of conferences and have had the opportunity to meet many very talented writers and illustrators.  Some of the most memorable have been:  Tomie dePaola, Marc Brown, Ann Brashares, Jerry Spinelli, Leeza Hernandez, and Marie-Louise Gay.

I have also had the unique opportunity to work with Canadian writer, Richard Scrimger.  He mentored me through the revision of my novel, Footprints of Terra.  I will never forgot when he said to me, "You are playing in the big leagues."  Thanks, Richard.

The writing continues...

I'm working on a new writing project inspired by Mental Health.  The project is about a young girl who suffers from an anxiety disorder.  Her parents are compassionate but lack the experience to be able to relate to their daughter's struggles.  With her acceptance, they enroll her in a summer program with hopes of getting her the help she needs to live a fulfilling, adventurous life.

On her journey, she meets other teens just like her and learns that she is not alone.  She experiences many feelings such as sadness, forgiveness, anger, and love as she searches for happiness.

Each chapter will include activities that readers can complete to help them in their pursuit of happiness.

Looking forward to New Jersey

I'm looking forward to attending the New Jersey writing conference in June. I have signed up to pitch my manuscript to two agents, which I have never done before. I need to do my research!