I never realized how wildly fun a childhood without electricity, television, or phones could be. But that was my life—long before Wi-Fi or social media. Imagine growing up completely cut off from the internet. (Yes, it IS possible. And no, I didn’t melt into a puddle of boredom.)

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My family and I lived on the island of Cebu in the Philippines. I was a rugged little adventurer who crafted slingshots out of tree branches and practiced my aim every day. We’d shoot at bats—not to hurt them, of course. They just flapped away, annoyed, and went right back to sleep in the trees. I spent my days playing with spiders, snakes, and giant beetles, and climbing coconut trees like it was my personal sport. I always climbed safely… even when my cousin slipped once during one of our silly "tree races." We quickly realized racing on the ground was probably a better idea.

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At night, we lay on the grass and stared up at the sky, wondering if aliens were out there watching us back. I loved telling ghost stories to my siblings and cousins, especially the one about the midnight spirit who wandered our cemetery searching for her lost love. Their wide-eyed reactions absolutely delighted me. And when I wanted quiet time, I’d hide among the sugar cane behind our house to write poetry in peace.

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One of the greatest influences in my life was my lola (grandmother). She lived with us and filled our home with tales of ancient beings with magical powers. Her stories opened portals in our imaginations—enkantos (fairylike people), Ongos (witches), mysterious realms, and more. She also taught us old superstitions that made everyday life feel enchanted. I love my Lola with all my heart.

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Eventually, I left Cebu to travel the world with the U.S. Air Force. Afterward, I became a substitute teacher for preschool through fifth grade. Teaching rekindled my love of storytelling and inspired me to write children’s books. Since then, I’ve published four books, with a chapter book on the way.

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My Hugz and His Friend Bugz series is bright, playful, and perfect for preschoolers learning numbers, colors, and the alphabet. Bodbod’s Ghosts, a beautifully illustrated mystery for early readers, helps children overcome their fear of the dark. Some teachers use it to teach inference skills. My upcoming chapter book, Tina and the Giant: The Borrowers’ Cave, weaves Filipino culture and mythology into an exciting, magical adventure.

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Writing for children is just one part of what I love. I’m passionate about supporting early learning by bringing books to book fairs, classrooms, and families in need. Early reading sparks imagination, builds creativity, and prepares children for bright futures.

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I invite you to join me in supporting early learning.
Give a child a book—a doorway to the world.