Barbara has lived in Iowa all of her life and has always had a lifelong love of reading. For the last twenty-one years, she has been reading to her "kids" as a childcare provider. Barbara is married and has two grown children of her own. She currently has two grandchildren and one on the way.

She has had three children's picture books published so far. The titles are:

I Love, Love, Love to Read, Read, Read

Money Doesn't Grow on Trees, or Does it?

Molly on the Move

Interview:

1. Will you tell us about your most recent published work?

My most recent is my third children's book entitled:  Molly on the Move.  It is the story of a girl who has to move often due to her father's job.

2. What personal challenges do you face as a writer?

Not having enough time to myself in order to focus on writing because I have a full-time job. 

3. What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

The most difficult part of the process is dialogue between characters.   I prefer writing in the first person.

4. What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?’

I would be willing to give up my full-time job or just  work part-time in order to devote more time to writing & marketing.

5. How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?

Publishing my first book was very exciting and gave me encouragement & incentive to continue on with a second book.

6. How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have? Will you tell us about them?

I have about twenty more children's stories written.  Of course, they all need revisions & might not be accepted  by publishers.  I would love to handpick & publish at least eleven more in the future.  So far I have one book published per year.  I would love to do two books per year.  All of my stories are for kids ages 3-7 and have a good message and a happy ending. 

7.  Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I have only had the first and second book reviewed so far through the Telegraph Herald.  They always gave me a positive review.  Of course, I've had personal comments that were not so favorable and hurt my feelings, but you have to be tough and realize that you can't please everyone.  And never give up.

8. Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few people will find?

The only "secrets" would be that each story might be based on or inspired by a family member.  Therefore, I always use different names.  But my family recognizes themselves.

9. What other authors are you friends with, and how do they help you become a better writer?

The first author who helped me get started was Fran Kennedy who critiqued my work and gave me a book titled "Writing Down the Bones"  by Natalie Goldberg.

I have become friends with author Linda Degree Deutmeyer when we joined the same writing group.  She took the time to read all of my stories and gave me feedback on each one.

I also have been lucky to meet Heather Gudenkauf and Mary Potter Kenyon who give excellent talks and advice. 

10.  If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

I would tell myself not to be afraid to share my "written words" with others and also don't give up your dreams.

11.  What are common traps for aspiring writers?

Common traps to watch out for:  When browsing the internet, be careful of fraudulent publishers who only want your money.

12.  What’s the best way to market your books?

I'm still trying to figure that one out.  It is not easy to get your books in stores.  Selling on Amazon is fine, if people know you are there.  You can try selling at fairs, shows, markets, but the cost of a booth or table is expensive.  You would have to sell a lot of books just to break even.

13. What is your favorite childhood book?

My favorite childhood books were:  "Little House on the Prairie"  and "Nancy Drew Mysteries".