The Big Scary Virus

I wrote this early reader for children and families to help them feel seen and cope with Covid-19, while always keeping every essential worker and those most vulnerable in the back of my mind.

I have been writing since I could put together sentences to tell a story. At a young age, both of my parents each had their own bedtime stories, and we would make up these stories together. The earliest story I still have, is from when I was eight years old. From eight until the present, I have been writing stories, poetry, song lyrics, journaling, and media articles.

I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Arts from Quinnipiac University in history and sociology, and a Master’s of Science in secondary education in social studies. In 2014, I had to retire from my careers and it took me a few years to remember how much I enjoyed writing. I then started writing, reading, listening, and researching as often as I could. I was encouraged by others around me to submit my work into various contests. Once I had won a few contests and started getting published, my confidence grew. Yet, something was missing.

I had my poetry published in several places, but I have always wanted to be an author of my own book. On April 1st, I went for a sunrise walk by the Connecticut River and thought about what I could do to help with Covid-19. When I got back, I started on The Big Scary Virus, and by the next day it was finished!

I started on the sketches for the book, and soon realized the stick figures I was drawing weren’t working. A friend highly recommend Charlotte Smith. After seeing her interpretation of my sketch and illustration details, I knew she was the best person to be the illustrator of this book! She has been an absolute pleasure to work with. Her illustrations bring The Big Scary Virus to life!