WWII Related
The Holocaust has been a subject that I have found compelling for my entire life. My academic writing focused upon autobiographies written by those who endured that cataclysmic ordeal. I sought to understand how such horrors could have occurred and how we, as a society, can take steps to ensure that they never happen again.
Taken Away
For Mature Middle Grade Readers and Above
Fourteen-year-old Elfriede “Elfie” Hoffmann just wants her life to return to normal—back before her best friend became a Hitler Youth leader, back to when her father was allowed to practice medicine, back to a time when she wasn't waiting for her friends to reject her.
Inspired by the Play "Taken Away" Co-Written with Don Butler
My next book is a creative nonfiction biography of a hero, Willi Graf. Holy Idealist: Willi Graf, Hero of the White Rose, conveys Graf's dramatic actions and the anti-Nazi resistance movement to which he belonged. I believe it is a story that deserves to be told and my hope is that readers will be inspired. The book will be published in late 2025. Scroll down to discover the history behind these events.
Willi Graf, Hero and Potential Saint
Willi Graf (1918-1943) was a German medical student and devout Catholic who became a key member of the White Rose, a student-led non-violent resistance group in Munich that opposed Hitler. Refusing to join the Hitler Youth, he was briefly imprisoned in 1938 for his ties to banned Catholic youth groups. After serving as a medic on the Eastern Front and witnessing Nazi atrocities, Graf joined Hans and Sophie Scholl in 1942 to help distribute anti-Nazi leaflets, try to recruit new members, and organize graffiti campaigns. Arrested in February 1943, he endured months of interrogation without betraying others. On October 12, 1943, he met his death with courage at Stadelheim Prison. Today, the Catholic Church has opened his cause for beatification, recognizing him as a possible future saint.
We who are fascinated by history's most dramatic eras probably wonder what we would have done if we had lived in those times. World War 2 has fascinated me since childhood, but not until I was an adult did I learn about the student nonviolent resistance movement, the White Rose. Siblings Hans and Sophie Scholl rightfully capture our attention. I, however, was drawn to quiet, introspective Willi Graf. As I read everything that I could about the White Rose, I was intrigued by how brave Graf was, and yet how little attention he has received. I want to help change that.
When my book, Holy Idealist: Willi Graf, Hero of the White Rose is published, I hope you will read it. Perhaps you will join me in admiring a young man whose courage transcends our imagination.Children's Books
Each book here holds a special place in my heart. Feel free to click a cover to peek inside or to add a new story to your shelf.
My Inspiration
From tender tales of animal friendship to true stories of courage under unthinkable hardship, all my work springs from a belief in the power of storytelling to comfort, to teach, and to remember.
Meet the Pets Behind My Stories
Mitzvah the Blind
Blind, joyful, and full of heart, Mitzvah saw the world in her own special way.
Daisy the Rascal
Spunky and stubborn, Daisy had a mind of her own and a heart full of mischief.
Sugar the Sweetheart
Kind, patient, and full of warmth, Sugar was a gentle friend with a powerful heart.
Buster the Foster
Resilient and heartfelt, Buster faces every challenge with courage and a wagging tail.
Inspiring Young Learners
Alongside my writing, I am also an educator, bringing the experience and insights of my PhD into the classroom. I love visiting schools, meeting students, and sharing stories from history in a way that is age appropriate and engaging. My greatest hope is to inspire young people to think for themselves, to value kindness, and to understand the importance of integrity and caring for others. By teaching about World War II and the courage of those who stood up for what was right, I aim to help the next generation grow into thoughtful, compassionate individuals who care deeply about the world around them.
Would you like me to visit your school, library, or classroom to talk about history and inspire young readers? Let's connect!
Connect With Me