What is a picture book?
Many books are all or mostly text, but picture books tell the story with a combination of words and pictures.
Which do you do first, the writing or the pictures?
I go back and forth between the writing and the art. For more details, go to the STUDIO section of this web site.
Do you write chapter books?
I specialize in picture books because I like to write AND draw.
How do you make the pictures?
Until a few years ago, I used traditional art materials such as colored pencils or acrylic paint to make illustrations. For all of my books since Celebrate the 50 States! I have primarily used my computer to create the artwork. For more details, go to the STUDIO section.
Is writing or illustrating more fun?
I enjoy both, but creating the art takes a lot longer.
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How did you learn to be an author illustrator?
I’ve been drawing, reading, and writing since I was a little girl while in school and on my own. Becoming a good author and artist is just like playing sports or a musical instrument... the only way to get good at it is to PRACTICE.
How did you first get published?
I drew and painted several pages of characters based on my jewelry, then I wrote stories about them. An editor at Holiday House liked one story, a counting rhyme with dragon characters. It was titled A Number of Dragons, and was published in 1985.
Do you ever get “stuck” when you're working on a book?
Sometimes, so I usually do more research, take a break, or ask friends and my editor for some new ideas.
Do you like being an author?
I feel very lucky to be an author illustrator, because I get to be creative, learn new things, meet nice people, be my own boss, and keep my own schedule.
Do you have any hobbies?
I like making jewelry out of beads, reading, hiking, and working in my garden.
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