As a self-published author of her debut picture book Taking Turns (2020), Marianne loves sharing with children her curiosity about science and nature.  She enjoys the outdoors especially the coast of San Diego and New England. She is passionate about literacy for kids and get excited about empowering young girls to “Be the change they wish to see in the world.” She delights in writing and researching nonfiction and fiction with STEM and STEAM themes in picture books and middle-grade books that use my professional background as a former special education teacher to spark fascination, entertain, and inspire children to learn more about their natural world. She holds a certificate in Writing for Children from UC San Diego (2020) and a B.S.Ed. in Elementary/Special Education. She has been awarded a SCBWI mentorship and scholarship as well as received an honorable mention in a PB contest for a nonfiction manuscript. She participates in writing-craft workshops and conferences and am a 12 x 12 and Inked Voices member. She also leads several nonfiction critique groups. When she is not writing, you can find her reading books with kids, nature walking along the coast, playing pickleball, cycling, or traveling to discover new faraway places. Marianne lives, writes, and plays in sunny Coronado, CA