The 'x' is pronounced like a 'c'

I grew up in the suburbs of Portland, Oregon where I developed a love of hamburgers, drawing, and anthropomorphic food. Upon becoming an adult, I decided to follow my childhood dreams of being a cartoonist and picture book maker. I attended the University of Washington and then Cornish College of the Arts where I graduated in 2004 with a BFA in painting and printmaking.

My artistic career has been a mix of comics, fine art, and illustration. I've worked with publications such as: The Chicago Reader, The Seattle Weekly, The Stranger, Nickelodeon Magazine, Highlights, and New American Paintings. But my love of comics and picture books has been my lifelong dream and passion.

My books have even won awards! Like my debut picture book, Boats for Papa! It received numerous awards and accolades including the 2016 SCBWI Golden Kite Award for best picture book text and a 2016 Washington State Book Award. My picture book Laundry Day received a 2018 Ezra Jack Keats Honor Award for writing. And my first graphic novel, Duel, (illustrated by Aaron Bagley) was winner of the 2024 Washington State Book Award for Young Readers. And that same year my picture book Maurice was a finalist for a 2024 Washington State Book Award! Most of my books are also Junior Library Guild Selections, which is extra cool because it means lots of librarians love my books and they are the biggest champions of stories!

I also illustrate for other writers and collaborate with people on books! Especially funny and amazingly talented husband, Aaron Bagley, whom I love working with on books, art, and Halloween costumes.

I live in Seattle, Washington in a castle in the sky with my wonderful husband, talented and funny son, and a slew of houseplants that all have names. I still love hamburgers, drawing, and anthropomorphic food.

Follow your dreams, kids!