Self-dubbed as a “Jane-of-Trades,” Barbara has held many careers in her life, including banking, small business ownership, and teaching. Barbara loves to travel and has visited numerous countries and states in the U.S. 

She and her husband have lived in Phoenix, Arizona for over 40 years where they raised two children. As a family, they enjoyed exploring most of Arizona in their RV. 

During her teaching career, Barbara earned a reading endorsement from Arizona State University. She believes reading transports children to places they never dreamed of visiting and promotes curiosity and admiration for the characters they read about. 

As a nature enthusiast, Barbara’s informational fiction children’s books include wildlife as main characters. She loves researching the birds in her stories and includes fascinating facts about those species. Readers are able to scan QR codes included in the books so they can listen to the bird calls. Barbara visits classrooms virtually and in person. She has written nine picture books, two of which can be purchased from OakieBees. 

Using her books in her presentations, she facilitates writing lessons, discussions about core values, and STEM-related topics.