I’m a native Tennessean and have written stories and books in one way or another my entire life. However, children’s books have always been my true passion.

I feel that children crave knowledge and that knowledge makes the world less scary. My children’s books are meant to entertain but also provide information for growing minds.

The Understanding My World stories are my first children’s book series and are inspired by a desire to help children navigate the emotions, challenges, and differences they encounter in everyday life. Through gentle storytelling and relatable characters, each book encourages empathy, self-awareness, and acceptance—giving young readers tools to better understand themselves and the world around them.

Every story in the Understanding My World series has a personal connection. Each one grew from something I’ve experienced, witnessed, or learned along the way. If you’d like to know the real-life moments that inspired these books, visit the From the Author section of the blog, where I share the stories behind the stories.

I have worked as a substitute teacher for elementary and middle school ages; a juvenile officer with boys ages 13-21; and security for Dollywood, being assigned to assist visiting families with special needs children.

In addition, I have volunteered with Samaritan House, a homeless shelter for families; Appalachian Outreach, a poverty relief organization and ministry; Isaiah 117 House, a safe environment for kids awaiting placement in foster homes; Guardian ad Litem,  an advocate for abused and neglected children; special education classes and field trips; and Special Olympics.

My second book series is the Skye Squirrel collection, which deals specifically with emotions—how to recognize, understand, and cope with them.