An interview with the author by Cole Zimmer  (her 5th grade son)

1. How are you like JoEllen?

When I was in middle school I remember transforming myself to be more like whoever I was hanging out with at the time. For example, I wanted to write fancy- with hearts and curlicues in my handwriting like a really popular girl, and carry my books in a way that seemed oh-so-feminine and sweet. Then on the weekends I'd be out in the creek exploring like the tomboy I naturally am. It took a long time to allow myself to be exactly who I was without thinking about how other people might feel about it. I hope girls today get there sooner than I did.

2. What is your favorite poem in the book?

It is absolutely  "The Poems I Like Best" which is, in fact, my favorite poem I've ever written. When I first drafted it it seemed like it was about JoEllen's perspective but I've realized that it is my own, too. It is also going to be the lead poem in Paul Janeczko's new anthology!

3. Who were your best friends growing up like Tamika, Annie and Hayden?

My twin sister, Trish, was and still is my best friend. Our neighbor, Anna (Anna-Banana)  was usually with us, too. I had lots of cousins all of whom I adored but didn't get to see as often as JoEllen gets to see Hayden.

4. Why did you put this story in Ohio?

I wrote this when living in Virginia and I was terribly homesick. I missed the rolling landscape of Ohio, Cincinnati chili, Reds baseball, and all things HOME. As this book is coming we are returning to live in Cincinnati, right where JoEllen's story lives. I've made such wonderful friends in the south but am happy to be heading home.

5. What advice would you give to kids who wanna write?

Read and write. You wouldn't expect to make the NBA without a ton of hours