Since I was a child I have loved reading and have maintained a journal off and on for more than 30 years. My book, "Teaching the Story: Fiction Writing in Grades 4-8" (Maupin House, 2007) reflects these twin passions of reading and writing. "If you want to write, read!" I am presently writing my first young adult novel, you can find out more under the "Half-Truths" tab. I love to read, listen to audio books, garden, teach writing, and am learning to golf. I co-publish the "Talking Story" newsletter with Joyce Hostetter, am a judge for the fiction contests sponsored by the Center for Writing Excellence, and enjoy teaching writing—particularly to young people who love to write!