I’ve always loved animals, and even before I started teaching at nature centers, I raised guide-dog puppies. But since beginning my volunteer work at three nature centers and a state park, I’ve realized that people are eager to learn more about the natural world, and of course children always enjoy a picture book. That’s something else I’ve always loved—picture books! I have had a wonderful time writing them. I have plenty of inspiration at home. My husband and I share our house with two dogs, two tortoises, two tarantulas (who come on class visits with me), an adorable little snake, and even a black widow (who I also take to schools for kids to see the only spider in California they ever need to worry about). I love to put a spotlight on animals important to our world who do not get much love or appreciation.