I graduated from St. Xavier University in Chicago, and have worked outside the home since earning my high school diploma at 16; including stints with two federal government agencies, University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service, a small farm-seed company, a now-defunct (a la Enron) worldwide accounting firm, and a large nonprofit conservation organization.  

A Hero on Mount St. Helens: The Life and Legacy of David A. Johnston was published by the University of Illinois Press (UIP) on May 18, 2019; the 39th anniversary of the 1980 eruption and David’s death on the mountain ridge that now bears his name. The book tells the story of a man, family, generation, and a science not well understood. The book title begins with “A” - not “The” Hero. David was proud of being part of a team. He was a USGS volcanologist. This book pauses to mark many types of heroes. A “hero among heroes” is a central theme.

The Female Assumption earned a 2014 Global Media Award from the Population Institute (PI) for its message of equality and education for females. PI was founded by a Methodist minister with the goal of educating legislatures about reproductive health; it is humbling to have my book on a list with other amazing writers. 

I’ve written three other books:

- Released May 2023: "100 Things to Do in Illinois Before You Die,” part of Reedy Press’ nationwide line of bucket list books. They started with citywide books (much easier than a whole state), and they have branched out into statewide books. It is a great honor to have written the one for Illinois; a book for which I’ve been “in-training” to write since I was 7 years old and my mom drove her car onto the ferry to cross the Ohio River at the southern tip of Illinois. You see, I-57 wasn’t completed yet. My mom introduced me to Rockome Gardens and the State Fair, and as a teenager, I rode shotgun with a map on my lap, directing my mom as she drove here and there. With my children and husband, I’ve continued to roam this great state. Ask anyone who knows me. I’m always on the go! Perhaps you’ll join one of my book talks during 2023 and hear about hidden gems (many in your backyard or region!) and insider tips. Wherever you go, keep your eyes open. This Earth (and its denizens) brim with beauty.

- Released in 2020: “Manteno” in Arcadia’s Images of America line, which relates the tale of a town with what was once one of the world’s largest mental hospitals, as well the story of Elizabeth Packard, whose plight began in my small hometown but was forgotten until I chanced upon her while writing my first book. She is now forever a part of Manteno’s written history, as it should be.

- Released in 2021: “The Secret Life of Postcards: Tracing Art and History Through One Woman’s Collection.” Available only from Kankakee County Museum’s gift shop or from me. Call the museum for details at 815.932.5279.

In addition to books, I have freelanced for various venues; please see my Media Page for articles/interviews.