About Me
I grew up in the Pennsylvania countryside, roaming woods, wading in streams, and climbing trees. I developed a deep curiosity about nature, which led me to study biochemistry and botany — earning a BS and PhD — and creative writing.
I love writing about science and inviting young readers to explore the natural world. I have written more than ninety books for children. My books have received a National Council of Teachers of English Notable designation, a Riverby Award, a Green Earth Book Honor, and spots on many “best of” lists.
New and forthcoming books include A Deathly Compendium of Poisonous Plants: Wicked Weeds and Sinister Seeds (Zest, October 2024), Wonder Wings: Guess Who’s Flying (Abrams, April 2025), and 150,000 Trees: Growing a Memorial for Flight 93 (Tilbury House, August 2025).
I’m a member of The Poet’s Garage, the National Association of Science Writers, and SCBWI. I’m represented by Sarah Stephens at Red Fox Literary.
I live in State College, Pennsylvania with my husband — musician and music teacher Rick Hirsch — where we raised three wonderful daughters: Anna is a writer and yoga teacher living in Philadelphia; Eva is an environmental educator in Washington, DC; and Ellie studies psychology and Italian at Dickinson College.
When I’m not writing, you’ll find me reading, baking bread, growing gardens, tending a small flock of chickens, or wandering in the woods with a nature journal in hand.
Rick and me
Our daughters (L-R) Eva, Ellie, and Anna