Are you a disciplined writer? What is your working style?

No, I am not a disciplined writer, unless I am being held accountable or am on deadline. Once I have an idea of what to write though, I can really run with it and continue through to the end, along with all the editing. I learned to love the editing process.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your works?

Yes, I have both. My website is Joyfulpaws.com and my blog is www.joyfulpaws.typepad.com.

What are you working on now?

Another children’s book about Frankie. I also do a quarterly newsletter about Frankie and am just starting a monthly E-magazine called Joyful Paws which will be short stories about animals. Anyone can sign up for these free at my Web site.

Where are your books available?

My Web site and Amazon. If you order from my website I sign each book plus Frankie “pawtographs” each book.

What was your experience in looking for a publisher?

I decided to self-publish for many reasons. I have grown by leaps and bounds and have learned so much by going the route of self-publishing.

What type of book promotion works for you? Any special strategies you’d like to share?

I think being open to all opportunities is what every writer needs to do. Especially with the internet, there are so many wonderful ways to promote. It does take a lot of work, but I am enjoying the marketing process. One of my bigger promotion strategies is marketing to our area schools and libraries and doing presentations.

Who are your favorite authors?

Sarah Ban Breathnach, Dr. Wayne Dyer, Natalie Goldberg.

What was your favorite book as a child?

Charlotte’s Web and Three Little Horses at the Kings Palace.

What is the best advice on writing you've ever received?

To always write from the heart…and to just begin! And also to give yourself permission to write and not worry about spelling, grammar, etc.

We hear again and again that picture books are incredibly difficult to write. Why is that?

I think because you have to remember what it was like to be a child. You have to say so much in fewer words. And you have to be descriptive with your words and sentences to keep the young readers attention.

Is there anything else you’d like to say to our readers?

Thank you for taking the time to read about me and “Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog.”