A: It’s based on stories I told my kids at bedtime. When you’re a writer it’s not enough to simply read to your kids, they expect you to come up with original material on the fly. That’s where Freddy and the Fries were born.

Q: What writers did you enjoy as a child and whose work do you admire?

A: I loved fantasy and adventure and mystery. Alfred Hitchcock and The Three Investigators was one of my favorite series. I loved Robert Louis Stevenson and Roald Dahl. Being from Virginia I devoured stories about the Civil War. My kids today are reading Tuck Everlasting, Flush and Troubling A Star.

Q: What authors do you enjoy reading now?

A: John Irving, Anne Tyler, Tom Wolfe, Nelson DeMille, David McCollough, Bill Bryson, Tony Horwitz, Lee Smith.

Q: Do you plan to write another historical novel like Wish You Well? If so, will it be based on your family?

A: I would love to write another novel like Wish You Well. If I did it would probably revolve around the same characters. I think they have room to grow in another novel. I need to come up with a story that would do justice to a follow-up.

Q: Is there something about yourself which is not commonly known that you can share with us?

A: Like my mother, I’m a worrier. I probably overprotect my kids somewhat. And I tend to be a micro-manager, though as I get older I see the value in letting some things slide.

Q: What upcoming projects do you have on the horizon? Any plans to bring back any popular protagonists like Maxwell and King or Web London?

A: The sequel to The Camel Club, entitled The Collectors is just out. I’m finishing up the next King & Maxwell story right now. It will be out in the spring of next year. I’m also working with producers in Hollywood to turn The Camel Club into a network television show.

Interview Date: September 2006
Profile and questions compiled by Megan M., Main Library