Somebody’s Someone follows a twelve-year-old girl trapped in a relentless cycle of searching and sorrow as she looks for her mother, who suffers from mental illness and addiction. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

My inspiration for the story and the setup was that I’ve walked a ten-year journey with my youngest son in his struggle with mental illness. I was inspired to write about the subject in order to lessen the stigma and the silence. I believe that many children live with a parent who struggles with mental health, and they need to know that they are not alone.

What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?

I most enjoyed writing Ruby’s character, but also enjoyed creating all the other characters as well. The most challenging was probably the mother’s character, as I had to portray her doing some bad things but be cautious not to demonize her.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The theme of good things coming from bad was very important for me to explore.

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

I’m working on several YA novels (always working on more than one thing!) I don’t yet have a contract, so no known publication dates. 

One Elm Books/Red Chair Press will be releasing my Middle grade title: First There Was Bird in August, 2026.

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