Having been raised in an Irish/Italian family, storytelling for Karen Devaney was a way of life. This author has an innate way of slipping in insightful perspectives while weaving a story. She is a published author and professor with a M.F.A. in Creative writing and a B.F.A in Theatre. is children's Artista by the Sea is her first adult novel. She began writing children's book; Frederick the Forgetful Rattler was her first book with Rosie the Dog Who Forgot to Grow, The Legends of B.B. Fibberpants, and Zanipola; Pop-Pop's Tree coming out spring of 2015.Karen enjoys giving readings at bookstores, schools and libraries. She is passionate about females having alternative books that portray women and girls as the strong characters they are. Her hope for readers is to give them a place to rest a bit while reading a story that leaves them refreshed, empowered, and delightfully entertained.In addition to the novels and children's stories Karen has written, she also works as a freelance writer and journalist for several newspapers. Currently she is working on a one act play, The Stoop, as well as completing her first book of poetry, Crooked Thoughts. Her next novel is Between the Vines a family saga about the Sonoma County wine industry. Karen is an active member of Women Thrive, Amnesty Now, as well as Eve Ensler's campaign to end violence against women and girls. She loves people and cultures and embraces all spirituality as a way to the truth and unity with all beings. Karen is sincere, irreverent, and truly a creative person in every facet of her life. Her current books can be found at Barnes & Nobles and Amazon.com