About

Our Story

I live in Virginia, with my husband and our two dogs. After graduating in 1994, with a BS in Art Education and Minor in Economics, I taught elementary and middle school art. Later, I worked as a job coach for persons with disabilities. Shadowing my clients, I enjoyed an incredible assortment of jobs. I love this social work, and it lead me to volunteer with Virginia Supportive Housing. For two years, I conducted art lessons with a group of formerly homeless adults.
Writing and art both have always been my loves. Along the way, I’ve published reviews and blogs in local publications. I attended UVA’s Young Writer’s Workshop back, well, when I was young. I received a merit scholarship to attend and it was a profound event in my life.
Late in 2019, I dedicated myself to Children’s Literature. I am a member of SCBWI. I’ve attended several workshops with the Highlights Foundation and SCBWI. I participate in group critiques with our local SCBWI chapter, and also regularly participate in critiques with the Facebook group Kidlit411.
With almost no digital art experience, I went back to school and took Intro to Graphic Design at John Tyler Community College. I was the oldest student at orientation and the second oldest student in my class. I cherish every “in person” memory from last semester, before we were forced online.
I especially love picture books. They reach into my heart in an easy and direct way. As a elementary teacher, they were my lifeline. Walking all day, as a cart pushing itinerate teacher, reading a picture book offered a brief chance to sit. My favorite lesson plans incorporated picture books. They offered an easy way to combine other subjects. They were fun, and less intimidating than other starting points.
When reading and writing, the themes that captivate me often include: love, never giving up, and facing your fears.

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T H E T E A M

Our Founders

Manny Wise - CEO

Tiffany Burke - COO

Josh Smith - CTO

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