About
Allow me to answer the two questions I hear most often:
For readers of Swept Up: No, I have never been kidnapped by an angryjanitor while on a school field trip. But I have spent a lot of time wonderingwhat would happen if I had been. In real life, I like school janitors and am not afraid of them at all.
For readers of No Ordinary Lizard: Yes, I have owned a lot of pets - more than any reasonable person ever would. I've had dogs, cats, hamsters, an African gray parrot, a pot-bellied pig, fish, Hermit crabs and, of course, the leopard gecko lizard who inspired this story. At times there have been more animals living in my house than people. But very few of them caused as much trouble as Benson.
When I'm not working on my next book (or taking care of my pets or running away from school janitors), I help kids write their own stories at allwritewithme.com. The site includes tips, techniques, activities and group projects. Drop in to share your own writing, see what other kids are working on, or just say “hi.”
Diane is a graduate of the University of Iowa and the Institute of Children’s Literature. Her short stories and articles have been published in children’s magazines, writers’ newsletters and online.
Betrayal (Alex and Cassidy) (Volume 2)
Description
<p>There is no one to trust in Nancy Ann Healy’s thrilling new novel, <i>Betrayal</i>.</p><p>FBI agent Alex Toles is relieved to return to work at the NSA after a frightening on-the-job ordeal. Her life partner, Cassidy O’Brien, and Cassidy’s seven-year-old son, have also been instrumental in healing Alex’s wounds.</p><p>But their peace is short-lived when they discover that their good friend—and President of the United States—John Merrow, has been assassinated.</p><p>Little do they know, however, that President Merrow’s death is just the beginning. Even as Alex and Cassidy are forced to confront the loss of their friend and the ramifications that will have on the global stage, they must cope with problems much closer to home.</p><p>Battling intolerance over the nature of their romantic relationship and long-hidden secrets within their families, Alex and Cassidy must confront the truth of their pasts in order to build the future they seek.</p><p>On top of it all, they must confront a conspiracy that spans multiple governments, intelligence agencies, diplomatic services, and international corporations if they are to finally discover the truth about the mysterious group known as the Collaborative—and about themselves.</p>
Story Behind The Book
To all the young writers at allwritewithme.com - I hope this book inspires you as much as you inspire me.
I invite everyone who discovers this book through other websites to visit allwritewithme.com. You’ll find great stories written by grade school kids.
You’ll also find free writing guides built around the Common Core. Grade-specific guides fulfill the standards for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.
I hope you enjoy this sample of No Ordinary Lizard!
