Ka-ris Kot-ter. “Charis” rhymes with “Paris” and you don’t pronounce the “h.”

Other FAQs...

What is your favourite place?
My house in Newfoundland. Mouse over picture to see my sunrise view of the bay.

Where did you get the idea to write Kids Who Rule?
From the time she was about eight, my daughter Zoe liked reading books about the childhoods of kings and queens. I myself have always been fascinated with royalty. I decided it would be really interesting to find out about the lives of child rulers. I did a lot of research and came up with the five children in my book.

How long does it take you
to write a book?
Including all the research and the planning—about one full year.

Were you a Wonder Kid when you were growing up?
Ha ha ha! No. I wish I was that smart.
My mother thought I was pretty special, though. ;)

How do you do the different accents for the Queen and Maria Agnesi and the Silky Ghost?
I used to be an actor and I learned how
to listen carefully and practice,
practice, practice!

Do you have any advice for kids who want to become writers?
Read as many books as you can and daydream a lot. Write down your stories and ideas as soon as you have them so you don’t forget. Don’t worry about getting everything right – just let your imagination lead you until you get that story down on paper. You can always revise it later.

The Queen's magic crown turns her into the Queen. When she takes it off she’s Charis again. Will that crown change me into a queen or king?
Sorry, it only works for Her Majesty.
Mouse over the Queen to see her change into Charis!

When are you coming to our school?
Just as soon as you invite me. Show this website to your school librarian!