A wise person once told me, "Deb, if you're afraid of doing something, and it doesn't hurt you or anyone else, do it more often. Until you aren't afraid." That advice changed the course of my life. Years later, when I told someone I was going to write a children's book, they asked with some skepticism, "But have you ever written one?" I laughed, "Nope, but having not done something before certainly has never stopped me." Be Kind, Be Creative, Seek Connections.

I had a 38-year-old dream of publishing a children’s book but no plan to achieve it until I moved to Carlton. Within a year, I made a connection that resulted in interviewing former U.S. Coast Guard men who had been stationed at the remote Rock of Ages Lighthouse, about five miles from Isle Royale National Park. I took the story of one man's brush with death during one of Lake Superior's November gales, combined it with the heartwarming tale of a lovable puppy that was smuggled to the lighthouse, and I set sail. Who knew the little town of Carlton would be where my dream came true! I’d been a freelance writer for 25 years, but this was where the circle came together.

I love this area with the forests, the river, lakes, and Jay Cooke State Park. But it's the local history and friendly, creative folks that make it a place to call home.

Rocky’s Lighthouse Adventure: A Lake Superior Adventure

It's More Than Writing! It's Connecting and Inspiring... Based on real events in the twentieth century, Rocky's Lighthouse Adventure is set in the middle of Lake Superior at Rock of Ages Lighthouse, which is part of Isle Royale National Park.

So, what do writers do, besides write, and then sell a book? The most delightful aspect of having written a book for young readers is having the opportunity to read to them. I love engaging them in an inspiring journey of tall tales and nature and adventure! I offer interactive, educational reading sessions that are lively, informative, and propel them to use their imaginations. We talk about Rocky, about Lake Superior and the Great Lakes, lighthouses, dogs, the Coast Guard, fishing, camping…whatever their curious minds dream up! They tell me their stories. We build lighthouses. We have a barking contest to see who can be the loudest! We write stories; we create books. We color. We share. We connect. And we are kind. I invite teachers, PTAs, libraries, stores, youth STEM and outdoor organizations, Girl and Boy Scouts, religious groups, and birthday parties to book me for a 1–2-hour session! Let your young ones interact with a published author so they can learn the value of books and storytelling!