07. February 2019

Last August I wrote a blog post about real-life places that inspired literature. Now, I can add another one to those enchanted spots that capture an author's imagination and don't let go until they are immortalized in written form.

10. October 2018

“A mermaid has no tears; therefore she suffers so much more.” Hans Christian Anderson, author of The Little Mermaid It seems that with Anderson the ultimate authority on mermaids has spoken, but as the protagonist of my brand-new work in progress says: "Let's face it: where does this intelligence come from? A nineteenth century inventor of fairy tales isn't a particularly reliable source of information. Has he done any scientific research on the topic, like inviting twenty mermaids plus...

05. September 2018

Over the last few years in the neighbourhoods of Victoria, British Columbia, small wooden boxes on poles have popped up on front lawns and sidewalks. Their designs vary greatly, some are rather plain, others lovingly painted and decorated, but their contents never change: they all contain books. Take one, share one, is their credo. I have borrowed good reads from these little libraries and dropped off some of my own books, but this summer my curiosity was piqued, and I looked into how the whole...

29. August 2018

A few months ago, I started writing the sequel to my book Trina's Bell's Humming Summer (a lighthearted blend of adventure and mystery for middle-grade readers), which is set in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. And, with my protagonist Trina back in this charming city for new exploits, I recalled the time when I first came here, and the impact the city's glorious scenery and its amazing wildlife had on me. All the marvels I encountered sparked the idea for my first novel, and this lovely...