Mrs. Wiggles and the Numbers: Patterns follows a group of number characters who are out at recess and get invited by their teacher, Mrs. Wiggles, to play an “I Spy” game—but with patterns! What was the inspiration for your story?

A few things inspired the story. First, children told me they wanted Mrs. Wiggles and the Numbers to count to 100. (Infinity, actually, but that would be difficult even for Mrs. Wiggles.)

Second, teachers asked for a fun, read-aloud, rhyming picture book about patterns with a storyline.

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

First, children must understand the concept of patterns to learn how to read and perform math operations.

Second, teachers often use a 1-100 number chart in the classroom to illustrate math patterns. I wanted to help them by incorporating a number chart in the story.

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

They were all fun! If I had to pick one, I’d say having Mrs. Wiggles ride the cow. I live in Wisconsin, and one day while writing the story, I went past a farm with a herd of cows that formed a pattern.

Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Mrs. Wiggles and the direction of the next book?

I have lots of ideas for Mrs. Wiggles. It’s exciting planning out the next adventure!

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