My Story

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What should you know about me? To start, I believe that the written word is magical. Words have the power to heal, inspire change, spark feelings, share information, and connect us. For as long as I can remember, I have adored this art form. Before I could pick up a pencil, I shared my ideas with my parents and urged my mom to write my words verbatim. We would craft small books together, with my story’s text above and crayon drawings below. From my toddler storytelling onward, I was known as my family’s little “word girl.”

I never grew out of my love for language, my necessity for expression through letters. To me, writing is the soul on paper. This creative outlet acts as my passion and purpose.

I became an author at age 12 when my middle-grade novel, White Lightning, hit bookshelves. Since then, my published works include fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. In 2017, I graduated from Chatham University’s MFA program, where I was awarded The Best Thesis in Fiction for my speculative fiction novel Roar, worked as the MFA Newsletter Fellow, and received certifications in Teaching and Travel Writing. 

I’ve also been a college writing tutor and instructor for creative writing, reading, communication and various English courses. I’ve worked with diverse students, ranging from preschoolers to adults. Most recently, I taught 9th grade English and Creative Writing. I also have years of experience in marketing , graphic design, and assisting many clients and colleagues with their written work. Now, I work as a novelist, editor, Literature Study Guide Writer, and Etsy shop owner. I believe in the power of education and the arts, striving for your dreams, and impacting the world positively. 

When I’m not writing, you can find me enjoying time with my husband, family, and friends, doing yoga, hiking, reading, playing tennis, enjoying board games, or walking my rescue dog Hatter. I’m known to daydream, start dance parties, and bake while wearing my Alice in Wonderland apron (made by my grandma). A native Minnesotan, I also loves to be on the water, whether a lake or the ocean. Visit my Etsy shop Stories and Stems, follow me on social media, or email me at ccletswriteon@gmail.com. I’m excited to hear from you! Write on!