Nine for California Tapa dura - 1996

"Often a newspaper article or a historical event that relates to my own experience triggers my stories. Though time and distance may separate me from the event, I can transfer my own feelings--fears and longings-- to the characters I am creating.
"I have escaped war. I have been an immigrant, an outsider, and lonely in a new land. I have been persecuted, the only Jew in the entire school. I have been the brightest student and also the dullest; I have been rejected and also praised for my accomplishments.
"All these feelings and challenges flow into my stories, whether picture books or novels for older readers. I draw characters from the individuals I have known--my mother, who was courageous and strong, my sisters, acquaintances and friends, some who were wonderful role models, others who betrayed me. I have written several mysteries, because I wonder what leads people into crime. Good fiction informs us about choices and helps us differentiate between what is valuable and what is destructive. Through drama we practice living. This is what I hope my fiction will provide for my readers, along with entertainment and pleasure.