I never dreamed of becoming a writer but always loved reading—my favorite authors being James Michener, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Harper Lee. I received her Bachelor of Arts degree in both music and biology from Mary Washington College (now The University of Mary Washington). While in graduate school, studying music theory, I worked a short time in cancer research before going on to write and record a CD, Just Enough. But it was when I met an artist named Jerry Palmer—who later became my husband— and wrote the introduction for a book idea he had carried in his head for 25 years, that I found what I truly loved to do.

In July 2015, I published my first book—the children’s chapter book Mr. Zip and The Capital Z. It’s a story of restoration and hope, and tells of a young, dark-skinned American boy, Peanut Johnson, who has just endured “a terrifically hard and terribly disappointing day.” In this tale, fourth and fifth grade readers join Peanut on a magical journey through history, all the while learning the true meaning of courage and hope.

Order your copy of Mr. Zip and The Capital Z today!