I am a middle grade children's book author. I write fantasy adventures incorporating stories about great artists that involve kids in art history. I have a PHD in Renaissance Art History, taught at major universities in the US and in Italy. My books address themes important to adolescents: fear of making mistakes, the power of thought, belief in your ideas, in fantasy adventures of an eleven year-old girl, Lucy, and a magic Corgi guide, Wilbur. After the publication of my first book, The Crystal Navigator,  I received hundreds of enthusiastic letters from children: "Your book is an emotional adventure," "After I read your book, my favorite painting is the Mona Lisa.." "I never knew Van Gogh was sad and he put that into Starry Night.." "I love that your dog inspired your book."