The Kitten That Could Not Meow follows five kittens who are looking for their forever home, including one that could not meow. What was the inspiration for your story?

Last year, one of my daughters adopted a homeless cat, rescued in the streets of Tennessee after a terrible storm months before. He was frightened of everything, and he could not meow. No one wanted to take him home except my daughter. Showing us there is a place for everyone! Months later, I got a phone call, and what did I hear? “Meow!”

​What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

I have always loved orange cats. My favorite orange cat, I named Bob, after Bill Murray in What About Bob? My friends at Draw and Care in Ukraine illustrated Maria and Clara from images of my daughters. I wanted to share their love for kittens and mine. Bob, of course, is the orange kitten. I believe one of the most precious sounds in the world is purring…it does not matter how we ‘hear’ it.

I felt this children’s story was well-written and intensely meaningful for today’s children. What experience as a writer helped you create this heartwarming story?

I just could not get the idea of my daughter’s cat, Simon, who could not meow out of my head. How many children would never hear a meow? How sad. I woke up in the middle of the night and envisioned how my little tale could end. It still makes me cry when I read the last page. When, as a writer, I can feel emotionally engaged every time, perhaps I have penned a meaningful story.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

Penelope’s Peace Place, is another precious and timeless ‘tale with tails,’ illustrated by my friends in Ukraine. It is a journey showing children the importance of family and sharing. Look for it in July.

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