SCBWI Westchester Authors and Illustrators Offering School/Library Visits

Diana Harmon Asher is the author of three middle grade novels, Sidetracked, Upstaged and Trouble Finds Evie Lefkowitz. Sidetracked, her debut novel, was an ABA Indies Introduce title and an ALA Notable book. It was awarded a Parents’ Choice Foundation 2018 Recommended Seal and nominated for seven state book awards.

K. Marcus is always surrounded by books. When she isn’t reading, writing or researching, you’ll find her outside hiking or enjoying nature. She has 2 children and lives in the Historic Hudson Valley with her spouse, cats, Westley & Buttercup, and new dog, Keeley. Her debut picture book, Frankenstein's Matzah: A Passover Parody published in January 2024.

Dr. Lorna Gonsalves has worked as a crisis counselor, university professor, non-profit director, and youth advocate. She holds degrees in Sociology, Counseling, Psychology, and Vocal Performance. Her life and work experiences around the world and especially in India and the United States have underscored the importance of storytelling, the arts, and collective action in envisioning and building a just world.

Cathleen Barnhart is the author of the middle-grade novel, That’s What Friends Do. Although it is her first published novel, she has been writing her whole life, beginning with an illustrated short story called “Aunt Ant,” which she wrote in second grade. As a former middle school English and social studies teacher, Cathleen enjoys having the chance to be back in the classroom through school visits, and especially loves to talk with students about the writing process. Cathleen has a spouse, three mostly grown children, a rescue dog named Zeke and a cat named Scout. When she’s not reading, writing, or walking Zeke in the woods, Cathleen fosters kittens and does CrossFit because it’s important to be sensitive and strong.

My husband and I have three children. I'm a recently retired Literacy and Special Education teacher. I’ve taught Art for my town’s recreation department as well as summer school programs for my school district. I’ve also done readings and picture book presentations in my school district.I’m also a minister with the Universal Church of Christ. I’m a member of SCBWI and The Writer’s Loft. I am fortunate to have had a picture book published by Richard C. Owens Publishers called My Favorite Place.