When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? I have always loved writing. As a little girl in elementary school, I loved to think of catchy, surprise endings for my short stories. Actually, an “A” I received for a poem about a soldier during the Vietnam War, when I was in my eighth grade English class, encouraged my writing of poetry. Then years later, when I started college, I enjoyed writing poetry about friendships and experiences.
When did you write your first book and how old were you? I wrote my first book, “I Did My Best” for children pre-kindergarten through second grade in 2020 at age seventy.
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books? My ideas come from my own life experiences generally, and people I have encountered in my lifetime.
What inspired the idea for your book? “I Did My Best” was inspired by my own kindergarten experience, as well as kindergarten experiences of my daughter and children I have taught.
What do you think makes a good story? A good story, in my opinion, comes from the heart. It incorporates personalities, places, experiences, memories the reader may relate to. I want there to be a positive message and an ending that is open, to the extent that the reader will want to read more about the characters.
How did you come up with the title for your book? I came up with the title, “I Did My Best” by thinking what the most important message was to give children entering kindergarten. That message is to always just do your best with everything you try. Another important message in my book is when attempts at friendship are not readily reciprocated, try again and draw that person into your circle.
How do you come up with character names for your stories? I use variations of names of friends, acquaintances, and children’s names I’ve encountered throughout my teaching years.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite? “I Did My Best” is the first in the “Jennifer Ella Rose Series”. There are four more edited and waiting for their release dates. I have written another children’s book that is waiting on its release date as well. It is a holiday story. A pre-teen holiday story is edited and awaiting its release date. I’ve submitted my first adult novel and am waiting to hear. My first poetry book is awaiting its release date. I’ve collaborated on a poetry book with my daughter, Christie Leigh, as well which is in the editing phase. So, you see, there’s much in the wind, great reading to come for all ages and varied genres. I am enthusiastic about all of my writing, but “I Did My Best” is my favorite because it sums up my philosophy of life: Always do your best and persevere!
If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about it? “I Did My Best”, first in the “Jennifer Ella Rose Series”, will be followed by the sequel where Jennifer and her classmates complete kindergarten. The third, fourth and fifth books in the series will bring new experiences with reading, removing the stigma of wearing glasses and a circus performance in second grade!
Have you ever tried to write a novel for a genre you rarely or never read? Yes, I am currently writing my first twist on a mystery. I love writing and trying various genres to provide interesting reading for diverse ages and interests.
