The storyteller behind the books.

I was born into a large, close-knit family in Brooklyn, NY, who believed that Imagination was the greatest gift a family could give to a child. From the safety of my home, I stood by Howard Carter's side when he discovered King Tut's tomb, walked with dinosaurs, and planned my wedding to Beatle Paul McCartney. My Grandma Josie told me stories about our seafaring ancestors battling sea serpents and tentacled beasts. She also claimed that our family had Mermaid blood. I believed it then; I believe it now.

In High School, I wrote lyrics for local rock bands. After graduation I chose to remain in New York City, where I became a frequent contributor to numerous magazines, newspapers and anthologies. Fifty years after my first article was published, my grandchildren — all who have Mermaid blood — requested that I turn my attention from the adult market to stories for the younger generation.

Being a kid was hard. I wasn't popular. I was the last one to be chosen for a team. No matter how hard I tried, I didn't fit in. Looking back now, none of this mattered. Why did I have to fit in? Why would I want to be like anyone else? I am uniquely me, and I am proud of who I am.