I’ve loved books for as long as I can remember. I also enjoy finding out what other people are reading.

When I was a kid, my favorite thing to do (other than reading) was bodysurf in the Pacific Ocean.

In college, you can’t actually major in bodysurfing. I’ve always enjoyed learning new things and solving problems, so I became a scientist. The picture shows me in an inorganic chemistry lab. Don’t worry – the liquid spilling on the lab bench is only water.

I graduated from the University of California, Davis and went to graduate school at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Then I worked for several years as postdoctoral fellow and studied many weird and wonderful things.

Somewhere along the line, I decided to try my hand at writing. I started with nonfiction and focused on science activities and math games for kids. Writing novels is the best, and I try to write every day.

I’m a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). In the past, I’ve served as a Regional Co-Advisor and mentorship coordinator for SCBWI-MI.

My hobbies are biking, paddle-boarding and playing the harp. I also dabble in nature photography. You can see some of my pictures on my photography blog, Words and Pixels.

My sons are grown. One is a math ninja. The other is a virtuoso guitarist.