What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
I'm a survivor of a hemorrhagic stroke in 2017 at age 80. My whole left side was affected. With more time for reflection, from ages 86 to 88, I began writing about my life journey.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
Bobbi silently hums “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah” while walking with a cane. She loved The Sound of Music and found “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” inspiring. Her elementary students sang “Boom De Ah Dah” with her as she played the ukulele.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Inspiring biographies, adventure stories, and space exploration. Favorite writing genre: children's stories, fairy tales, and poetry.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
African American poetry. Trace Gallagher's new book, Bible.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
The Chimps Cheer, involving my elementary students. The front door crash at Wexford Court. The landlady as a murderess.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
As a stroke survivor, I used my right hand to poke out the letters one at a time.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
Perseverance is the key!
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
Hold fast to your dreams. Taken from Langston Hughes, Dream Poem.
