A Peek Into My Life

   I write picture books, middle grade novels,
            and create art inspired by things and places I have encountered.

           
​ Maybe it's the child in me who refuses to let go of the question, "What's that?"
               I try not to pass by the amazing things around me as I move through the day.
                                    
   ​       By only looking straight ahead you can miss some exciting things!

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 Part of my favorite fable:
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"So take every hope as it happens
With the will of a wish at your sleeve;
And when time come to call,
you can reach for it all
If you'll only just believe."​      


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Linda Whalen

Author and Artist

Born in Texas, while still a toddler  I was whisked away to San Diego, CA where I grew up near the ocean. Spending summers visiting my family in Texas, I acquired a taste for sweet tea. Even though I now live inland, I still love the smell and sounds of the ocean. I married a farm boy from the mid-west who expanded my life experiences from city girl and beach girl to country life on my in-laws farm. Following my husband's career I have lived in many states with our five children in tow. Wearing a variety of hats,  my family has always been my focus. I volunteered as a 4H leader and classroom aide as well as being part of a co-op pre-school. As a business woman I owned and operated  Whalen's  Country Childcare. My experiences fuel my passion of writing for children. I hold dear the awe and wonder seen in the eyes of a child and hope to forever be inspired by the sight.  I have  appeared in newspapers, magazines, and CBS Good Day Sacramento for my debut Picture Book, Little Red Rolls Away, as well as being a guest on Bob Dunning's syndicated talk show for my adult inspirational book The Valley of Childhood.  As a child I wasn't exposed to many books outside of school but I quickly developed a love of reading when books became available.  I'm often found with a book near by if not in my hand. I have gobs of Picture Books but also enjoy middle grade, some YA and adult books. I read in all genres depending on my mood and definitely need more book shelves. Even though I didn't have books as a child I wrote down the stories wondering through my thoughts. Now I have many  manuscripts looking for homes.​
Besides my family and writing I have another love. Art! When time allows I sneak away to my art studio to get lost in paint and paper.

Some of my favorite sites
Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustrators 
Linda Joy Singleton
Danna Smith
Verla Kay
Purple Crayon
http://www.literallylynnemarie.com/
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Member of:
SCBWI
Storystrom
Picture the Books 2017
KIDLIT
Create Engaging School Visits
Fightin' Bookworms
MG Lunch Break

I grew up near the beach and still enjoy the smell of the salty air and the feel of sand between my toes!