Obviously I love to read, but I also love reading about and watching insects—I have hissing cockroaches as pets. Yes, I know—weird. I actually thought about going back to school to become an entomologist at one point. Hmmm—does going to Broadway shows count as a hobby? I love hiking and miss living in New Hampshire with all those beautiful mountains to climb. I also like to draw. I originally wanted to write and illustrate picture books.



Yikes, Amanda! Hissing cockroaches?! Well, that’s unique! :)
I had an entomology professor come speak to my class when I was teaching 5th grade and he brought some–and left a few for us to raise. They’re very slow-and it’s fun when the hiss, but my husband is still wondering why we have them since I haven’t taught in fourteen years.