| Allison, David ZM | Allison, David ZM | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/allison | Meet local author David ZM Allison. | <div class="ExternalClassFB7FED3BF9FD4BF198E3E21780C872E8"><h2>Meet local author David ZM Allison.</h2><h3>Genre: Children's<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>All Kinds of Families, Finding a Sport for Hector</em></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">David ZM Allison is a writer, coach, and founder of Clumsy Courage™—a creative brand built to inspire honesty, momentum, and heart-led growth.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">A former English major at the University of Pennsylvania, David has spent decades writing poetry, collecting stories, and coaching hundreds of runners, from first-timers to professional triathletes. In 2007–08, he even chased his own dream of qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Trials in the marathon.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">But it wasn’t until 2025, approaching the age of 55, that he made the leap to share the creative work he’d quietly carried for years. His notebooks were crammed with poems, unfinished novels, and story ideas—work he never fully believed would see the light of day. Now, he’s committed to putting them out into the world.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>All Kinds of Families</em> was his debut children’s book—a joyful celebration of how love shapes the families we build. (Fun fact: the first edition accidentally forgot the title page, a mistake quickly fixed in round two.) He followed with <em>Finding a Sport for Hector</em>, a playful, encouraging story about one determined kid who tries and fails his way through baseball, football, tennis, and more—until he begins to discover where he truly shines.</span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Together, these books mark the beginning of a growing library of honest, heart-forward stories that encourage readers to start where they are, mess up, and keep going anyway.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">David lives in Phoenix, Arizona, with his wife Zoraida (his partner since 1998), their two children, and a spirited tripod dog named Ripley. When he’s not writing, running, or reading, he’s cheering on his kids and searching for joy, abundance, and the freedom to live fully—one honest word at a time.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><p><br></p></div> | allison | |
| Baine, Vermilion | Baine, Vermilion | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/baine | Meet local author Vermilion Baine. | <div class="ExternalClassB43F07269B3641BEB8D66794F30AAE41"><h2>Meet local author Vermilion Baine.</h2><h3>Genre: Paranormal Romance<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>The Fey Hotel, The Academy of the Dead</em></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Vermilion H Baine is an indie fantasy author based in the American Southwest. After a tour as a nuclear electrician’s mate in the US Navy, she now works in the semi-conductor industry. She writes fantasy, low and high, and tries to sprinkle in humor between the extreme bouts of angst. She lives with two very codependent rescue dogs, her grumpy, can-fix-anything husband, and her Viking-sized sons. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Her books, <em>The Fey Hotel</em> and <em>The Academy of the Dead</em>, are standalone novels set in the same modern magical world. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><br></p></div> | baine | |
| Barnes, Ginny | Barnes, Ginny | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/barnes | Meet local author Ginny Barnes. | <div class="ExternalClass1C2E9CACDF5B4244BAEF1AC4B7106E1D"><h2>Meet local author Ginny Barnes.</h2><h3>Genre: Mystery<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Murder on the Home Tour</em><br></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">I was born and raised in the Washington, DC area but have lived in Arizona since the 1960s. I have a PhD in anthropology from Arizona State University. I was an instructor of anthropology and religion at Phoenix College. My publishing background includes editing and writing state and national middle and high school textbooks. I live in the historic neighborhood of Encanto-Palmcroft which serves as the setting for my cozy murder mystery, <em>Murder on the Home Tour</em>.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-ccp-props="{}"><br></span></p></div> | barnes | |
| Basham, Judy Danko and Jacquie Kennedy Dudo | Basham, Judy Danko and Jacquie Kennedy Dudo | <i class="fa-solid fa-user-group"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/basham-dudo | Meet local authors Judy Danko Basham and Jacquie Kennedy Dudo. | <div class="ExternalClass4794C90914CC4B8C821D03C12E960F31"><h2>Meet local authors Judy Danko Basham and Jacquie Kennedy Dudo.<br></h2><h3>Genre: Children's<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Grandma McBee, How Slow Can She Be?</em><br></h3><div><h4><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></h4><h4><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Judy Danko Basham</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></h4></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Judy Danko Basham is a dedicated educator with over 27 years of experience in early childhood education. She teaches in the Child and Family Studies Program at Glendale Community College in Glendale, Arizona. She remains deeply involved within the community, volunteering at early childhood centers during her free time. Judy stays busy playing pickleball, spending time with her husband, JT and two adult children, Bradley and Lexi and their families.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><h4><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Jacquie Kennedy Dudo</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></h4></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Jacquie Kennedy Dudo is a dedicated educator of 12+ years experience in early childhood education. She teaches at Washington High School and Phoenix Community College in Phoenix, Arizona. She advocates for Early Childhood Education and Career and Technical Education Programs. Dedicated to shaping young minds, she brings her passion and expertise to her preschool, high school and college students. At home, Jacquie focuses her attention on raising her three children—Lucas, Logan, and Liam.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><p><br></p></div> | basham-dudo | |
| Bernbaum, Sophie | Bernbaum, Sophie | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/bernbaum | Meet local author Sophie Bernbaum. | <div class="ExternalClassE7F0927C91CE4B8A8C86EEF43C0DD62C"><h2>Meet local author Sophie Bernbaum.</h2><h3>Genre: YA<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Just Eloise</em><br></h3><p><br></p></div> | bernbaum | |
| Billig, A.G. | Billig, A.G. | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/billig | Meet local author A.G. Billig. | <div class="ExternalClassA1FAF2F5F42F4EC0A4A07B03AD62540F"><h2>Meet local author A.G. Billig.<br></h2><h3>Genre: Self-Help<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>I Choose Love</em><br></h3><p><br></p></div><div class="ExternalClassA1FAF2F5F42F4EC0A4A07B03AD62540F"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">A.G. Billig is a bestselling author, motivational speaker, and personal growth coach dedicated to helping individuals unlock their best selves through the power of love.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Her modern-day novels weave deep emotional journeys, complex characters, and themes of love, resilience, and personal transformation. Her self-help books blend ancestral Transylvanian wisdom, personal life experiences, and specialized training, offering a heartfelt roadmap to growth and fulfillment in both life and relationships.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">In an earlier chapter of her life, A.G. was a child prodigy in Transylvania—winning multiple literary awards while still in middle school and writing her first novel before she even turned 15. By the age of 17, she was hosting her own radio show, and later, she became a TV host and PR consultant for a prominent advertising agency.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Born to a French father and Romanian mother and currently living in Sedona, Arizona, A.G. envisions herself as a global citizen who speaks the universal language of love. You might spot her hiking the stunning trails of her hometown, meditating at sunset on a beach in California, or nestled in a window seat on an airplane, headphones on and Kindle in hand, en route to her next speaking engagement.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> <br><br></span></p></div> | billig | |
| Blanch, Jethro | Blanch, Jethro | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/blanch | Meet local author Jethro Blanch. | <div class="ExternalClassBAB76A68050B481F849298626DEB33D4"><h2>Meet local author Jethro Blanch.</h2><h3>Genre: Non-Fiction / Paranormal<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Haunted Arizona: Deadly Graveyards</em></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">For over three decades, Jethro Blanch has dedicated his life to exploring and studying the paranormal. He has conducted numerous ghost hunts, guided tours, and investigations at haunted sites across Arizona, revealing forgotten histories and chilling stories along the way. He currently resides in a haunted house somewhere in Phoenix.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-ccp-props="{}"><br></span></p></div> | blanch | |
| Branning, Debe | Branning, Debe | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/branning | Meet local author Debe Branning. | <div class="ExternalClassA5EEB04DEE3D4D64BFBC428877318C1D"><h2>Meet local author Debe Branning.<br></h2><h3>Genre: Non-Fiction / Paranormal<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Haunted Phoenix, Haunted Arizona, Haunted Schools of Arizona, Haunted Globe</em></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Debe Branning has been the director of the MVD Ghostchasers--a Mesa/Bisbee, AZ based paranormal team since 1994. The team conducts investigations of haunted, historical locations throughout Arizona. Debe has been a guest lecturer at several Arizona universities and colleges, historical societies, Arizona paracons, and science fiction conventions on the topic of historic/haunted Arizona.</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Through continued research and education, Debe has earned the trust and respect from their clients and other paranormal investigators.</span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">She has appeared in an episode of TRAVEL CHANNEL'S "Ghost Stories" about haunted Jerome, Arizona in July 2010-- and “Ghost Adventures” about the haunted Old Gila County Jail in Globe. She has traveled, toured and investigated at haunted locations across the United States, England, Scotland, Ireland and Mexico.</span><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"> As a paranormal travel writer, Debe traveled to Europe to cover haunted castles, jails, ships, inns, cemeteries and ghost walking tours. She has been the guest of several US tourism departments such as Carlsbad, Historic Hotels of the Rockies, Salem, and Biloxi. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335557856":16777215,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p><div><p><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"> She is the author of several books including:</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> <em>Sleeping with Ghosts-A Ghost Hunter’s Guide to AZ’s Haunted Hotels and Inns</em> (2004), <em>Grand Canyon Ghost Stories </em>(2012), <em>The Graveyard Shift--Arizona's Historic and Haunted Cemeteries</em> (2012), <em>Dining With the Dead—A Guide to Arizona’s Haunted Restaurants and Cafes</em> (2017), <em>Haunted Phoenix</em> (2019), <em>Ghosts of Houston’s Market Square Park</em> (2020), <em>Arizona’s Haunted Route 66 (</em>2021), <em>Haunted Globe </em>(2022), <em>School Spirits—Final Lessons</em> (2024) and <em>Arizona’s Haunted Tri-Cities—Mesa, Chandler, Tempe</em> (2024). </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335557856":16777215,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p></div><p><br></p></div> | branning | |
| Bratspis, Leslie | Bratspis, Leslie | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/bratspis | Meet local author Leslie Bratspis. | <div class="ExternalClass8BE5495E4C8444ECB4E3A8423EE91291"><h2>Meet local author Leslie Bratspis.<br></h2><h3>Genre: Fiction<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Vanilla Grass, Good Fortune</em><br></h3><p><br></p></div> | bratspis | |
| Camilo, Natalia K. | Camilo, Natalia K. | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/camilo | Meet local author Natalia K. Camilo. | <div class="ExternalClass1B522D80C075400E86C6F802D3902D60"><h2>Meet local author Natalia K. Camilo.</h2><h3>Genre: Poetry<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>True Flower</em><br></h3><p><br></p></div> | camilo | |
| Chasten, Channing | Chasten, Channing | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/chasten | Meet local author Channing Chasten. | <div class="ExternalClassC6B22D7117B34C6D851917E2999E22CB"><h2>Meet local author Channing Chasten.</h2><h3>Genre: Children's<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>The 1% Kid</em><br></h3><p><br></p><p>C<span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">hanning Chasten</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> is a children’s author, motivational speaker, former professional soccer player, and founder of </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The 1% Kid Foundation</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through the pillars of soccer, literacy, and mindset. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised in Chandler, Arizona, Channing developed a passion for soccer at age three, a passion that would carry him to play Division 1 soccer at </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The Ohio State University</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> from 2019–2022. After graduating with a degree in Communication Analysis and Engagement, he went on to play professionally for </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Phoenix Rising FC</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> from 2022–2023.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Channing’s journey to success was far from easy, and it was fueled by the belief that small, consistent improvements lead to big achievements. This belief inspired his debut children’s book, </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>The 1% Kid</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, a heartfelt story about practice, perseverance, and patience. The book encourages children to focus on getting just 1% better every day—whether in sports, academics, or life, showing that progress, not perfection, is the true path to reaching their dreams.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Through his nonprofit and speaking engagements, Channing has shared his message with thousands of students nationwide. He has worked with schools, youth organizations, and athletic programs to deliver </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">author visits</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">goal-setting workshops</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, and </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">motivational keynotes</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">. His events often combine storytelling, interactive activities, and discussions on mindset, resilience, and goal achievement.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Today, Channing continues to inspire the next generation both on and off the field. Whether he’s leading a soccer clinic, reading his book to a room full of eager students, or hosting literacy and sports pop-up events, his mission remains the same: to help young people unlock their potential, build confidence, and approach each day with the 1% mindset.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><p><br></p></div> | chasten | |
| Coates, Bill | Coates, Bill | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/coates | Meet local author Bill Coates. | <div class="ExternalClassD1EFB5889A3648C8B0747FD7DD3CDF53"><h2>Meet local author Bill Coates.<br></h2><h3>Genre: Fiction<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Rancho Javelina</em><br></h3><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><div class="ExternalClassD1EFB5889A3648C8B0747FD7DD3CDF53"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><br></span></div>Bill Coates has worked at newspapers in the Phoenix area for some 30 years, along with a few breaks to write fiction. Newspapers, it turned out, paid better. Bill’s a Phoenix native, though – as an Air Force kid – he spent time in Nebraska and Guam. True, Arizona doesn’t have as much corn as one or as much ocean as the other, but it has plenty else. Desert. Mountains. A history of growth and conflict. More sun. More guns. More do-gooders. More rascals. More people afflicted by circumstance. And more circumstances to afflict them. And, lest I forget, more javelina. You won’t find javelina on a beach or in a cornfield.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></div><div class="ExternalClassD1EFB5889A3648C8B0747FD7DD3CDF53"><br><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"></span><p><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">Bill lives in South Phoenix with his wife, Cindy, and Maggie, their 15-year-old Shih-Tzu. He got the idea of a Javelina rescue ranch from a feature story he wrote about a desert sanctuary for pot-bellied pigs. Javelina, as those in the know will point out, are not pigs. But they make for a better story.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"134245417":false,"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> <br><br></span></p></div> | coates | |
| Cooper, Emily | Cooper, Emily | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/cooper | Meet local author Emily Cooper. | <div class="ExternalClass5D5395C8E40A4F579B0F0898FB04F460"><h2>Meet local author Emily Cooper.</h2><h3>Genre: YA / Fantasy<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Magia!, Nicole Sastasha and the Kingdom of the Anasazi</em></h3><p><br></p></div> | cooper | |
| Cox, Tinamarie | Cox, Tinamarie | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/cox | Meet local author Tinamarie Cox. | <div class="ExternalClassB34902DBA9C344A6B79022736FB216CE"><h2>Meet local author Tinamarie Cox.</h2><h3>Genre: Poetry<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Through a Sea Laced With Midnight Hues</em></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Tinamarie Cox lives in Prescott Valley (AZ) with her husband, two children, and rescue felines. Her written and visual work has appeared in many online and print publications under various genres. She has two poetry chapbooks with Bottlecap Press: </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Self-Destruction in Small Doses</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em> </em>(2023) and </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>A Collection of Morning Hours</em> </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">(2024). Her first full-length poetry collection, </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Through a Sea Laced with Midnight Hues</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, was released in 2025 with Nymeria Publishing. Nymeria also plans to release her second poetry book, </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>A Numbers Game</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, in early 2026. Much of Tinamarie's poetry circles around mental health topics, which include depression, anxiety, suicide, C-PTSD, and others. Her work examines the emotional response, digging deep into her own psyche to understand her past while creating something relatable for others battling mental illness symptoms. </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Through a Sea Laced with Midnight Hues</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> is a poetic journey through a depressive episode, travelling through her darkest moments to find hope on the shore with the sunrise. You can learn more about her work on her website: </span><a href="http://tinamariethinkstoomuch.weebly.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">tinamariethinkstoomuch.weebly.com</span></span></a>.<br></p><p><br></p></div> | cox | |
| Czep, J.J.M. | Czep, J.J.M. | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/czep | Meet local author J.J.M. Czep. | <div class="ExternalClassD6056C4ECE4A40BD967126DFC0D73B96"><h2>Meet local author J.J.M. Czep.</h2><h3>Genre: Sci-Fi / Teen<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Cloud to Cloud, Trolls</em><br></h3><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Author, performer, tarot reader, and adventurer, Czep gives creativity means to move through the mundane. She has sailed with pirates and mermaids, danced with the fae, and returned to offer classes, readings, and workshops across the country. She is always happy to welcome new crew into her House of Rainbows and Awesome.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Czep can be found throughout the valley at local events, selling her books, dancing, and reading tarot. Keep up, if you can. Let creativity move you! </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><p><br></p></div> | czep | |
| Deibel, Jennifer | Deibel, Jennifer | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/deibel | Meet local author Jennifer Deibel. | <div class="ExternalClass07A8BD07906F4C268990E4FC1636CFB5"><h2>Meet local author Jennifer Deibel.</h2><h3>Genre: Christian Historical Fiction<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Heart of the Glen, The Irish Matchmaker, The Lady of Galway Manor</em><br></h3><p><br><br></p></div> | deibel | |
| Drake, Teniecka | Drake, Teniecka | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/drake | Meet local author Teniecka Drake. | <div class="ExternalClassA7D1A2C0244D4451BC79BAEFD104E331"><h2>Meet local author Teniecka Drake<a href="/locations/burton-barr"></a>.<br></h2><h3>Genre: Memoir<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>The Gift of Finding God's Love: Guilt and Shame Turned into My Shine</em><br></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Surviving domestic violence showed author Teniecka Drake her purpose in life. After her painful experience, she knew she had to share her story and how her faith in God helped her survive. To inspire survivors of domestic abuse, she released her beautiful book, <em>The Gift of Finding God's Love: Guilt and Shame Turned into My Shine</em>.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The book reveals a true-to-life story of survival. It is a narrative of the small and big tragedies and victories that the author has experienced in her journey in life. Her poetic passages in the book show readers how faith and commitment to God can save a life. The author shows many ways to find God's love. She also shares how to lean on God as we go through trials and tribulations in life. The book serves as a personal testimony that God is always there for everyone, especially in the deepest and darkest moments of life.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><p><br></p></div> | drake | |
| Duarte, Stella Pope | Duarte, Stella Pope | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/duarte | Meet local author Stella Pope Duarte. | <div class="ExternalClass7EEE8E3B2DCF47E492B2542D2A6E1BDD"><h2>Meet local author Stella Pope Duarte.</h2><h3>Genre: Fiction / Children's<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>If I Die in Juarez, Women Who Live in Coffee Shops, Writing Through Revelations, Blanco the Little Donkey That Saved Christmas</em><br></h3><p><br></p><br></div> | duarte | |
| Dumas, Brenna Craven | Dumas, Brenna Craven | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/dumas | Meet local author Brenna Craven Dumas. | <div class="ExternalClassDA2D3363A1AF46D38381E99EF59484EB"><h2>Meet local author Brenna Craven Dumas.</h2><h3>Genre: Children's<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>The Poop Tails, A Horse's Guide to Glitter (English and Spanish)</em><br></h3><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Brenna is a children's book author and illustrator. She has published 13 picture books as of August 2025. Brenna writes and illustrates children's picture books. Brenna also has a full-time corporate job. Brenna works in a department called Human Resources (HR). In this role, she teaches others how to be nice to each other. Brenna has a bachelor's degree in psychology from Arizona State University. Brenna has lots of experience with kids - specifically the human kind. No baby goats, unfortunately. She helped raise her niblings, tutor children, taught art, and did arts and crafts and science projects with children as well.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span><br></p><p><span class="EOP SCXW156473436 BCX8" data-ccp-props="{}" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;background-color:#ffffff;font-size:12pt;line-height:20.85px;font-family:aptos, aptos_embeddedfont, aptos_msfontservice, sans-serif;"><br></span></p></div> | dumas | |
| Ella, Sara | Ella, Sara | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/ella | Meet local author Sara Ella. | <div class="ExternalClass39993446DB3B430EB262E2798A9F2B12"><h2>Meet local author Sara Ella.</h2><h3>Genre: YA / Fantasy<br></h3><h3>Title: <span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Unblemished, Coral, The Wonderland Trials, Glass Across the Sea</em></span><br></h3><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Once upon a time, Sara Ella brought dreams to life as a Disney cast member, wishing for the day she’d find her prince and live in a castle of her own. Now she spends her days homeschooling her three Jedi in training, braving the Arizona summers, and reminding her superhero husband that it’s almost Christmas (even if it’s only January). Sara is the award-winning author of </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Glass Across the Sea</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>, </em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>The Wonderland Trials</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>, </em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Coral</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, and the </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Unblemished</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> trilogy. She is old enough for fairy tales and believes happily ever after is never far away.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-ccp-props="{}"><br></span></p></div> | ella | |
| Estes, Christina | Estes, Christina | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/estes | Meet local author Christina Estes. | <div class="ExternalClass3F58FE3530AA40ED8DFA9CA5471D033B"><h2>Meet local author Christina Estes.</h2><h3>Genre: Mystery<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Off the Air, The Story That Wouldn't Die</em></h3><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Christina Estes spent more than 20 years reporting in Phoenix— including nine years covering City Hall. Now she’s flipped the script: she’s the Vice Mayor’s communications director and the author of a mystery series about a reporter digging into City Hall secrets.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Estes’s newest novel, </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>The Story That Wouldn’t Die</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> opens with a real-life elevator mishap at City Hall that leads fictional reporter Jolene Garcia to investigate the death of a beloved small business owner, where she uncovers a web of betrayal and murder tied to powerful people. Packed with Phoenix landmarks, from indie coffee shops to neighborhood restaurants, Estes’s books are entertaining whodunits and love letters to the city she calls home.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Estes’s debut novel, </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Off the Air</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, winner of the Tony Hillerman Prize for Best First Mystery Set in the Southwest, was a </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Good Morning America </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Buzz Pick. </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></p></div> | estes | |
| Faus, Jennifer | Faus, Jennifer | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/faus | Meet local author Jennifer Faus. | <div class="ExternalClassAE0D5C0344AA49B09403820F7CD2906F"><h2>Meet local author Jennifer Faus.</h2><h3>Genre: Children's<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>The Adventures of Kazu and Gil</em></h3><p><br></p></div> | faus | |
| Filos, Dr. Dawn | Filos, Dr. Dawn | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/filos | Meet local author Dr. Dawn Filos. | <div class="ExternalClass0A0982B8AA5F48C68E05FDA5FDCDB859"><h2>Meet local author Dr. Dawn Filos.</h2><h3>Genre: Non-Fiction/Animals<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Tales from a Pet Vet</em><br></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Dr. Dawn Filos grew up in New Jersey, in a family of eccentric animal lovers, preparing me for a lifelong career spent with like-minded pet people. She spent most of her career in Pennsylvania (Philadelphia and Bucks County), where she remained after veterinary school for most of the last 32 years. She now splits her time between Scottsdale, Arizona and East Hampton, New York. <a href="http://www.drdawnthepetvet.com/" target="_blank">Her blog</a> </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">was originally started to augment pet first aid classes, and pet CPR coursed she taught for years. It began as more informational and evolved to focus on the benefits of the human-animal bond, a topic which interests her and features prominently and often throughout the book. She has contributed several Medical Mystery pieces to the Philadelphia Inquirer newspaper, and hopes to pursue further writing in journals and other media, and is available for public speaking engagements.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-ccp-props="{}"></span><br></p></div> | filos | |
| Foster, Valerie | Foster, Valerie | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/foster | Meet local author Valerie Foster. | <div class="ExternalClass3F4220AB6817434B9A00E3968FF99095"><h2>Meet local author Valerie Foster.<br></h2><h3>Genre: Memoir<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>The Risk of Sorrow, Dancing With a Demon</em><br></h3></div> | foster | |
| Fox, Phoebe | Fox, Phoebe | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/fox | Meet local author Phoebe Fox. | <div class="ExternalClass6B392CDEF2554FCA95D51F58B15C0699"><h2>Meet local author Phoebe Fox.</h2><h3>Genre: Children's<br></h3><h3>Title: Starry's New Friend<br></h3><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Phoebe Fox has a B.A. in Early Childhood Development from Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University and an M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction, also from ASU. She is a former elementary school teacher and librarian, who loves to read to kids, both in person and through her YouTube Channel, Mamafox Books’ Storytime Saturdays. Her books are best suited to children ages 2-8 years old and feature watercolor illustrations by Arizona artists. Her <em>Starry the Sheep</em> series focuses on social emotional topics, such as self-awareness (conquering fears), self-management (finding one’s way), and relationship skills (friendship). <em>Julian Blooms</em> is a beautiful heart-warming story of a late-blooming peacock. Her book<em> On the Verde River </em>was chosen to represent Arizona on the 2024 Great Reads from Great Places list with the Library of Congress. Phoebe is an Arizona native living in Phoenix with her husband, three sons, a Golden Retriever, and a Golden Doodle.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><br></p></div> | fox | |
| Francis, Mimi | Francis, Mimi | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/francis | Meet local author Mimi Francis. | <div class="ExternalClass16DEE8CB5A1E47F9B198ABC45827BDDF"><h2>Meet local author Mimi Francis.</h2><h3>Genre: Romance<br></h3><h3>Titles: <em>Taken by the Mobster, Lakeside Love, Private Lives, Private Protection, Private Party</em><br></h3><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><br></span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Mimi Francis is a sassy romance writer known for her steamy tales of passion that leave readers breathless. She is the author of multiple series, including <em>Second Chances in Hollywood</em>, <em>Loves of Lakeside</em>, and <em>Massachusetts Mafia</em>. When she's not crafting the perfect happily-ever-after, you can find her sipping margaritas and binge-watching Marvel movies or the TV show <em>Supernatural</em>. But her true loves (after her husband, of course) are her four Shih Tzus who keep her company as she spins stories that will make your heart race and your toes curl. Get ready to fall in love with her characters and the worlds she creates.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span><br></p><p><br></p></div> | francis | |
| Geiger, Rhyan | Geiger, Rhyan | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/geiger | Meet local author Rhyan Geiger. | <div class="ExternalClassB2709FD2AD6D4E2AAFFC40EBA964779B"><h2>Meet local author Rhyan Geiger.</h2><h3>Genre: Non-FIction / Cooking<br></h3><h3>Title: <em>Vegan Slow Cooking For Two</em></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">Rhyan is an award-winning plant-based dietitian and the Phoenix Vegan Dietitian, where she helps people enjoy more plant-based foods through media channels and writing. She is the author of <em>Vegan Slow Cooking for Two</em> and has been featured in <em>Women's Health, Well+Good, Forbes, Food Network, Shape</em>, and more. She has also appeared on local Arizona news channels 12News and ABC15. Rhyan graduated from Arizona State University with a BS in Dietetics and completed her Dietetic Internship at Georgia Southern University. Connect with her at </span><a href="http://www.phxvegandietitian.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">www.phxvegandietitian.com </span></a><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">or on Instagram at @phxvegandietitian </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p><p><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"></span></p></div> | geiger | |
| Lynn Campbell | Lynn Campbell | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/campbell | Meet local author Lynn Campbell. | <div class="ExternalClass33CBE49F366642E8BCAD66928DFE4950"><h2>Meet local author Lynn Campbell.</h2><h3>Genre: Romance </h3><h3>Title: <em>Flight Plan, Revenge Game</em></h3><p></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Lynn Campbell</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> is an elementary teacher based in Phoenix Arizona where she lives with her husband and son. As an aviation wife, Lynn has spent countless hours at general-aviation airports in and around Arizona immersing herself in the world of flight. When she isn't writing, teaching, and traveling, she loves exploring new foods, diving into Rock n Roll history, and getting lost in a good book. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-ccp-props="{}"><br></span></p></div> | campbell | |
| Wiley P. Davis, Jr. | Wiley P. Davis, Jr. | <i class="fa-solid fa-circle-user"></i> | https://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/services/programs/local-authors/davis-jr | Meet local author Wiley P. Davis, Jr. | <div class="ExternalClassA3079E0A760649B2A38A29FCE0344E3B"><h2>Meet local author Wiley P. Davis, Jr.<br></h2><h3>Genr<em>e: Historical Fiction</em><br></h3><h3><em>Title: The Flight of a Thousand Songbirds</em></h3><p><br></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Wiley P Davis, Jr, originally from Detroit, Michigan, was a co-captain on his high school basketball team </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">where he played alongside Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Spencer Haywood and NBA All-Star Ralph Simpson</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> in winning the Michigan State basketball championship. After graduating from Regis College (University) in Denver, he graduated with a master's degree from the University of Washington (Seattle). </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">He is a retired Maricopa County Community College District educator who, for over 25 years, worked in various leadership capacities at South Mountain and GateWay Community Colleges, including program director and adjunct faculty. Prior to relocating to Phoenix, Wiley spent six years working and coaching at Everett Community College in Everett, Washington. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span><br></p><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">For 30 years, Wiley served as a volunteer classroom facilitator with Career Concepts for Youth's (CCY) 6th-grade Stay-In-School and Achieve program. In addition, he served as board chair of the Phoenix George Gervin Prep Academy. After moving to Southern Arizona, Wiley and his wife, Roberta, spend time maintaining an active fitness routine. He also enjoys playing golf, reading, and his new pleasure, writing novels. His first novel, </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>The Flight of a Thousand Songbirds</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, is available in paperback or digital format. For libraries and schools looking to order either format, please contact Ingram Lightning Source online at ingramcontent.com and reference the book title.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><p><br></p></div> | davis-jr | |
