I've spent over 20 years, and still counting, working in civil rights, primarily consulting to expand equitable access to education and employment. Much of that work involves business development: building relationships, marketing, pitching, selling, speaking, and writing, all aimed at professional audiences.
​
I never imagined stepping into the world of children's literature until the pandemic, when my basement turned into a classroom. We called it our "pod squad." Being part of those children's daily lives gave me a front-row seat to their resilience, creativity, and emotional depth as they navigated such a challenging time. Around that same period, I came across an ad for the local community college offering an online course in children's literature. I signed up. And in doing so, I began channeling my passion for writing toward a new, younger audience.
​
I've always understood the power of literacy, having grown up with a mother who is a reading specialist. But it became even more personal when one of my two sons faced early challenges with reading and speech. That experience deepened my commitment to helping children and their caregivers navigate learning and emotional growth with compassion and support.
​
Tale Bound was born from that mission. The children's book series I'm creating centers on social-emotional well-being, offering stories that reflect real feelings and everyday moments. Rather than naming specific issues outright, these books are designed to be reflective tools, invitations for meaningful conversations between children and the adults who care for them. A heartfelt story starring a dog named Cole sparks thought-provoking discussions about social and emotional well-being topics.
​​
I never had a dog growing up, and never planned to get one for my kids. Just days before we unexpectedly brought home our first (yes, first) pup, I made my kids a responsibility chart. Each child had daily tasks to complete, and if they achieved full marks by the end of the month, they'd earn a fish—one fish—to share.

​

But as a baseball mom with two boys on travel teams, I've learned that life throws curveballs. Ours came as a tree that fell directly on my car during a windstorm while driving my youngest to daycare. The good news? We were both safe. The twist? That weekend didn't teach my kids responsibility; it taught them spontaneity.

​

The happy ending is that we now have a beautiful, fully medicated, anxiety-diagnosed dog. The less-happy ending is that I'm highly allergic to my dog. I mean, dogs, but that's a story for the planned sequel.
​
Get ready to fall head over paws for Cole! His tail-wagging tale will warm your heart and allow a gentle start to meaningful talks. Thank you for being here and believing in the story's power to spark conversation, foster connection, and create a lasting sense of belonging.