The Adventures of Marie and LeeLee follows two best friends who turn everyday moments into grand adventures and find joy in the small things in life. What was the inspiration for your story?

This story is based on the childhood adventures of my best friend Marie and I.  Sadly, Marie passed away from cancer nine years ago.  She was truly a bright light in this world and had a way of spreading laughter and happiness to everyone she met.  I wrote this book as a way to continue to spread her joy :)​

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

It was so important to me that this book radiate joy.  That is the essence of who Marie was.  It was also important for me to share the story of our friendship and how it is the small moments that we spend with those we care about that are transformed into lasting memories through the beauty of friendship. The Message from the Author was another feature that is very meaningful to me.  It says: “Marie and LeeLee want you to know that you are loved! You are loved no matter what, and you are loved every hour, every minute, and every second of every day! You are loved for the beautiful person you are inside, and you are loved because you are YOU!”.  Not every child hears this message, so I am trying to share this message as far and wide as I can!

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

I had so much fun writing every scene because it brought back so many wonderful memories.  I would have to say though that it is the scenes where Marie and I are talking and laughing that stand out to me because that is what we spent most of our time doing!

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out and what can your fans expect in the next story?

I would love to write more books and make The Adventures of Marie and LeeLee into a series.  I am a pediatric speech-language pathologist, so I plan to continue to incorporate language development and beginning reader strategies into future books as well.

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