Writer.
Storyteller.
Book Lover.
About Me.
My passion (borderline obsession) is telling stories to make us laugh and cry. I was a selected participant for the New School fiction writers workshop led by Nahid Rachlin and I am the co- author of God’s Refugee, a non-fiction narrative which chronicled the boyhood of my dear friend and co-author, John Chol Daau. Not only did God’s Refugee teach me I could be a writer, but it was also awarded the 2015 Elk Lake Publishing Prize and the 2016 Selah award in non-fiction. From the experience of helping my friend tell his story, I learned I could tell my own. Currently, I am a SCBWI Mentee and an avid cheerleader of fellow authors. Authors supporting authors makes my day.
When I’m not writing, I make homemade ice-cream, fluff pillows, and exuberantly decorate for the seasons; more about that here. I work as a teacher and live in Philadelphia with my husband and fascinating muses, better known as my incredible, small children.
Current Projects
I write novels about teens and the world of firsts: first loss, first kiss, first gig, and first discoveries. Some things you will always find in my books are grief, endearingly awkward romance, family dynamics, flawed characters making bad choices, and moments of redemptions. I am currently seeking representation for two completed Young Adult novels and daydreaming my third. Wish me well along my journey and please reach out. Connecting with readers makes my other day.
Work Experience
I’ve done a lot of things. Some awesome, some less so. One thing I learned from years of waiting tables and working retail, is that one generous tip can make someone’s night and everyone behind a counter has a story to tell. I’ve learned to listen more. I hold a master’s degree in religion and have worked a variety of professional positions from working cross-culturally with refugees and international students, teaching in Central America (where I spent my early childhood) and working at a women’s crisis center as a survivor advocate. I am thankful for these experiences and my constant call to a writing life.