Experience

I am the mother of four young daughters, business owner, teach 8th grade English, and have written several children's books including three young adult novels as well as some poetry and an e-book.

Also known as "Mrs. Mac", I've been teaching middle school English for over 15 years and taught a Health curriculum for 6 years. I find that a lot of parents don't like to talk to their children about adolescent issues because they're too embarrassed, but this is where communication needs to be the strongest. I usually like to incorporate touchy adolescent topics, personal experience, as well as my own teaching adventures into all of my books.

I am currently pursuing my Master's of Education in Literacy and Language Arts.

Theory

I truly feel that instead of "preaching" to teens, I have been much more successful at approaching topics at their level. Teens find it easier to relate to adults when adults can relate to them. Mutual respect is key because teens have a voice. They all have their own opinions and would like to be heard. Communicate with them in a non-threatening way and they will usually respond positively.

Suggestions

If you are the parent of a teenager, boy or girl, read LIFE IN THE FAST LANE. Either the parent can read it first, have the teen read it next, then talk about the issues together, or parent and child can read it together (you'll need 2 copies) and discuss the chapters on a daily basis (I believe this is most effective). I would also recommend this book for a mother/daughter book group!

Coming Soon

While LIFE IN THE FAST LANE, is my first published book, the second book in the series, ANOTHER LIFE IN THE FAST LANE, has just been released in paperback. A third book, ANGEL OF MERCY, has also been released in paperback as well. This is more of a gentler version of a suspense/horror/thriller for young teens. I am currently working simultaneously on several other novels/ short stories.

Wanted:

Currently seeking a Literary Agent.