About the Author

When I was a kid, I dreamed of being an Amazon. Not the mythical kind; I wanted to be like Peggy and Nancy from Swallows and Amazons and spend long summer days heading out in a boat and exploring the shoreline. I wanted to set up camp and have cool adventures. I also wanted to address the injustices of the world. Growing up, I lived in many countries, and often encountered people who didn’t have access to clean water or adequate housing or good food or free schools. The fire of injustice burned within me.

Then I grew up, and the fires within me grew stronger. For many years, I looked for ways to have adventures and create change in the world. I went hiking in the arctic, kayaked among whales, worked for an environmental organization, travelled to far flung places, and became a teacher. 

When I began writing, the topics I wanted to write about were right there in front of me: nature and adventure, bringing justice to the world, having fun with family and friends. These have been my passions all my life. And one day I realized I’m one of the lucky ones: I get to live my childhood dreams. 

I am the author of several books for kids and teens, some of which have been translated and nominated for awards. I teach English and Creative Writing to college students at Camosun College in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia. I have a fabulous writing group, a lovely home, and a great family.