Writers' communities are very helpful to writers because it gives them a way to try out their stuff short of publication.

Most of my books came from when I was telling stories.

I get my ideas for books from my own kids and sometimes from other children. Often when I am telling stories I will say: I am going to make up a new story.

People forget what a big issue toilet training is for adults and kids, and it is not fun, especially when you're in a car on the interstate.

I get up in front of a bunch of kids and say 'Hey, I'm gonna tell you a new story. Who wants to be in a new story?' Well some kid always sticks up their hand and that gives me a name, but it doesn't give me a story. I just say whatever comes to my mind and usually it's not that good. Every once in a while, however, I say something that turns into a really good story.

Clang Clang Rattle Bing Bang, Gonna make my noise all day!

Every author has different ways of writing and what works for one author does not necessarily work for another.