In Queen Molly and the Summer Palace, a German Shepherd and her owner venture northward to enjoy the cooler temperatures and embark on new summer adventures. Where did the idea for this story come from?

I have lived part of the year in PA and part of the year in FL for several years; a reverse snowbird, I guess. Of course, that means two road trips a year with my various dogs. Two years ago, I made the trip with Molly for the first time, and her responses to all the new experiences fascinated me. I thought a book written from her perspective might be kind of fun to write and read.

Is there anything from your own life that you put into Molly’s adventures?

All of Molly’s adventures have a basis in reality. I guess I am more observant than I am creative.

I enjoyed the humor woven throughout your book. How important is it for you to create lighthearted moments in your children’s books?

I have come to the conclusion that my greatest contribution to this world, behind my wonderful daughters, is adding a little humor to it. So many people seem to be taking everything so, so seriously! I believe humor helps put everything in perspective. I have always been able to laugh at myself and, fortunately, have helped my kids adopt that attitude, and they’re happier for it. If I can let other kids know that the world can be a fun place and you can find humor everywhere if you look for it, that’s a good thing.

Can readers look forward to a third book in the Molly series? If so, when will it be available?

Yes, I will be writing one more book in this series. When Molly and I returned from the Winter Palace, Meghan was pregnant. Readers will be able to see that pregnancy through Molly’s eyes. As to timing, I hope for late Spring. I need to scrape up enough money to pay for my Illustrator! I am definitely not in this for the money.

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