When you are a writer, you get loads of questions from curious friends, co-workers, and people on the subway. Here are a few questions that I seem to get asked all the time, along with my answers. If you've got a question, lob it my way, and I'll answer it on this page of the site.

How long have you been writing?

I started as a medical writer in 1995, and I've always liked to write short stories. I began playing around with BABE IN TOYLAND in my spare time during the summer of 1999.

Do you write every day?

Hell, no. I think it's a big misconception that aspiring writers MUST write every day, or else. I like to write about three times a week for a few hours each time, and let my thoughts marinate for a couple of days in between.

Are you writing anything else?

Not exactly, no. After putting out three books in as many years, I'm pretty durn tuckered out for the moment. I'm playing with an idea for another novel, and I've started work on a Young Adult novel tentatively titled "Dog Days of Summer," but mostly, I'm just chillin' for now.

Are those your kitties?

Yup. The guy on top is Loki, an American longhair. His four double paws and tiny weight problem contribute to his overall cuteness. Down below is Kiddun, a Persian who resembles a cross between an Ewok and Phyllis Diller. As though there could be any better combination!

I'm trying to get an agent. What should I do?

First, buy yourself a brand, spanking-new copy of the WRITERS MARKET, a doorstop-sized tome that's available everywhere. It will list the literary agents who represent the genre you write in, and will tell you which agents will take on new, unpublished writers. Then see what those agents need from you: some want a query letter and sample pages, some want these things along with a synopsis. In terms of how to write the letter, and for general information, I also found THE INSIDER'S GUIDE TO GETTING AN AGENT by Lori Perkins to be very helpful.

Who did this delicious-looking Web site?

Yes, it is the picture of cool, is it not? It was designed by my pal Carolyn Komerska. Isn't she swell?