Considering the types of stories I used to write (dark, twisted comedy stuff…sort of like my films), it amazes me that I’ve been lucky enough to have a bunch of books for younger kids published through Picture Window Books and Stone Arch Books.

My first book was an actually an entry in a short story contest that got the big ‘thumbs down.’ I later submitted it and a handful of other short stories I’d written to PWB and they liked Patrick’s Super Socks, a story about a little kid who can’t sleep without wearing his special footwear. Afterwards, they asked me to write a non-fiction book about Mount Rushmore. Though I’ve never been there, I said sure. Ever since, I’ve been writing books for them each season as they develop new series. And yes, I’ve even written a book about ballerinas.

It’s been a fun trip so far. I’ve really gotten a kick out of doing readings/signings at schools, libraries and talking about writing. There’s nothing like meeting kids, parents and anyone else who enjoys reading and talking about books. More please?

On the side, I’m polishing up my novels geared toward young adult readers. I am currently seeking representation. So, hey, if you know a great literary agent…

Just sayin’.


Latest Books

Your Life as an Explorer on a Viking Ship

You just tried out for the school play. Who wants the lead part more than anyone? YOU! Imagine sailing the high seas without a care in the world. Storming castles for gold and jewels. Wearing a horned helmet. But be careful what you wish for. That might not be the way it was for an explorer on a Viking ship …

Your Life as a Settler in Colonial America

You just tried out for the school play. Who wants the lead part more than anyone? YOU! Imagine riding in horse-drawn carriages. Dining with the finest silverware. Wearing fancy clothes and powdered wigs. But be careful what you wish for. That might not be the way it was for a settler in Colonial America …

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Gold Medal Swim

Sam is the best swimmer on his school swim team. When Julien, a new exchange student at school, joins the team near the end of the season, Sam offers to help him practice. But when Sam and Julien have to race against each other in the final meet, only one swimmer can win the gold.

(Text by Thomas Kingsley Troupe)

Relay Race Breakdown

Nick hates running, but when his gym teacher gives him an ultimatum—join the relay-race team or fail the class—he knows he has no choice. He’ll have to suck it up and run. Will he learn to run or let down his team?

(Text by Thomas Kingsley Troupe)

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Track and Field Takedown

Kyle’s school decides to host an Olympic Fest in honor of the Summer Olympics, and he’s assigned to compete in the track-and-field events. The only problem is, he’s no good at them. Will practice make perfect, or will Kyle embarrass himself in front of everyone?

(Text by Thomas Kingsley Troupe)

Additional Books

BMX Challenge

Jason never turns down a dare, which has gotten him in trouble more than once. After he gives some classmates a hard time, they challenge him to a BMX competition. Jason can’t say no. But BMX is way harder than he thought. If he can’t learn to ride before the competition, this dare will be his last.

(Text by Thomas Kingsley Troupe)

 

 

Fighting a Fire - Step by Step

Have you ever wondered what steps firefighters take when fighting a fire? Pull on your turnout gear and hop in the truck! You’re on your way to fighting a fire, step by step.

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If I Were a Ballerina

If I were a ballerina, I would wear pointe shoes.  I would stretch my legs and leap across the stage!  Dream big, and see what fun it is to be a ballerina.

If I Were a Firefighter

If I were a firefighter, I would rush into burning buildings to rescue people. I would blast flames with water and foam.
Dream big, and see what fun it is to be a firefighter!

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If I Were the President

If I were the president, I would be Commander in Chief. I would help keep the country safe. I would also play tennis on my own court. Dream big, and see what fun it is to be the president.

Legend of the Loch Ness Monster

It’s a big, long necked monster that lives in the waters of Loch Ness. Stories of the Loch Ness Monster are told all around the world. Is it possible the legends are true?

 

 

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Legend of the Zombie

They’re walking dead people who are dazed and confused! Stories of zombies are in many parts of the world. Is it possible the legends are true?

Margo and Marky's Adventures in Reading

Margo and her bookmark, Marky, are first-class adventurers. How do they do it? By reading books, of course! Follow the explorers as they talk about some of their most exciting reading adventures. From flying supersonic jets to sailing on a pirate ship, Margo and Marky have done it all.

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Mount Rushmore

The stone face of four U.S. Presidents forever stare out across the Black Hills of South Dakota.  Join a park ranger as he introduces the story of the Mount Rushmore National Monument.

Mountain Bike Hero

Everyone says that Crooked Hill has a curse. But it’s the only good place to go mountain biking in Flatte County. When Jonah’s brother goes down it during a storm, can Jonah beat the Crooked Hill curse?

(Text by Thomas Kingsley Troupe)

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Patrick's Super Socks

The creepies creep. The creepies sneak. And if Patrick doesn’t wear his Super Socks, the creepies will eat the toes on his feet!

Quinn and Penny Investigate How to Do Research

Quinn and his trusty pen, Penny, are on the case! Follow them as they figure out how to research in the library. Will they track down all the clues they need for the assignment? Whether its reading books, searching the Internet, or watching documentaries, these sleuths have got it covered.

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Skateboard Struggle

After Evan’s older brother breaks his leg skateboarding, their parents ban skateboarding for the whole family. But Evan loves skateboarding too much to quit. When his grandmother catches him practicing for a competition, Evan knows his secret is out. He has to decide what’s more important: doing what he loves or telling his parents the truth.

(Text by Thomas Kingsley Troupe)

The Legend of Bigfoot

It’s a huge, smelly monster that stomps through the woods. It roars in the night as it hunts for food. Stories of Bigfoot are heard all over North America. Is it possible the legends are true?

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The Legend of the Bermuda Triangle

In the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, planes and ships have vanished without a trace. Stories say something is taking these vehicles. Is it possible the legends are true?

The Legend of the Vampire

It’s a monster that drinks human blood. It can turn into mist, but it can’t stand the sun. Stories of vampires have been told on every corner of the globe. Is it possible the legends are true?

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The Legend of the Werewolf

It’s a monster with sharp claws and pointy fangs. It howls at the moon as it hunts for its next meal. Stories of werewolves have been told all around the world. Is it possible the legends are true?

The Truth About Dragons

Dragons have roared their way through popular fairy tales for many years. Have you ever wondered why dragons look the way they do, where they might hide, or how they scare their enemies? Journey through this book to find out the truth about dragons.

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The Truth About Elves

Elves have been hiding out in popular fairy tales for years. Have you ever wondered what elves look like, where they live, or how they trick people? Look carefully through this book to find out the truth about elves.

The Truth About Trolls

Trolls have trampled through popular fairy tales for many years. Have you ever wondered what trolls look like, where they hide out, or why they like darkness? Stomp through the pages of this book to find out the truth about trolls.

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Windsurfing Winner

Nick gives up everything he tries. So when he’s on vacation, he tries surfing. He doesn’t like it, so he quits. A friendly girl helps him learn to windsurf. But will he quit that if he can’t do it?

(Text by Thomas Kingsley Troupe)