My agent at the Susan Schulman agency, Christine, has taken a job as an editor for a book publishing company, and will no longer be representing me. She has done a terrific job for me and I will miss her. Best of Luck, Christine!

I am beginning a new version of PLAYING BY THE NUMBERS  for my editor at Henry Holt. This rewrite will focus more on the brother's experiences as a conscientious objector in Canada than on the effect of his departure on his younger sister. The book will be aimed at a slightly older audience.

I have been invited to speak at the California Reading Association Conference in Visalia next Fall. While there, I will speak to teachers, librarians and reading specialists about the writing process and the development of ideas.

Can't believe that I just received a wonderful royalty check from Penguin for I KNOW AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A PIE!  The book came out nearly twenty years ago and is still selling strong! Let's hope for twenty more!

I have been invited to visit Brookside Elementary School in Beaumont, California next May. While there I will speak to all of the students about the writing process, editing, illustrating, publishing, etc. Should be fun!

Recently returned from the CSLA (California School Library Association Conference) and it was a wonderful experience. Along with presenting, I participated in an "Author Speed Dating" session with members of the organization and attended the California Young Reader Medal Awards Dinner. Featured speakers were Audrey Vernick and Jennifer Nielsen.

I will be a featured speaker this weekend at the California School Library Association Convention in San Diego. Other authors who will also be presenting include:

Kathleen Krull
Deborah Lee Rose
Patricia Newman
Jeri Chase Ferris
Audrey Vernick
Jennifer Nielsen
Caroline Arnold
Lisze Bechtold
Marcia Berneger
Mary Ann Fraser
Helen Foster James
Traci Chee
Audrey Coulthurst
Dana Elmendorf
Rahul Kanakia
Tara Sim

Can't wait!