Meet Children's Author Stephanie Dikey

 Carpinello's Writing Pages welcomes Stephanie Dikey, author and teacher, along with her book The Adventures of Phoenix and Tucson: The Great Rescue.

First, a bit about Stephanie:

Stephanie Dikey is a third grade teacher in Webster, New York. Writing was sometimes difficult for Stephanie, but when she began her career as a teacher, she developed a passion for writing and teaching the craft to her students. Her students have always been interested in her furry children, Phoenix & Tucson, and Stephanie often enjoys sharing real-life stories about their friendship. Now she finally has a book to share about their special bond! Says Stephanie (a.k.a. Mrs. Dikey), “I want my students to believe that they are writers even if it isn’t easy. Everyone has a story and it’s worth sharing.” Stephanie found her passion for teaching at a young age and began teaching in 2002. She received her Master’s in Literacy in 2005. “The more you read, the better life you will lead,” is something Stephanie lives by when teaching her students. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, walking on the beach, exercising, and spending time with her family and friends.

Why did you pick to write books for children?

I am a third grade teacher, and I am always inspired by my students. They love to ask questions about my pets, and they love to hear stories about them. This inspired me to write stories for all children to read and enjoy. Also, I was a reluctant and struggling writer as a young child. It was not until I began teaching students the craft of writing that I began to enjoy writing myself and celebrate writing with kids!

What types of books do you like to read?

I like to read realistic fiction books and biographies. I also enjoy reading many kinds of children’s books (even as an adult)!

When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

I enjoy reading. I also like to cook and try out new recipes. Finally, I enjoy taking my dog for a walk.

Tell us about The Great Rescue and how the story came to be.

My pets are both rescued animals. It is a story about their rescue and the special bond they created immediately. I think it is important for kids and adults to see the special friendship that animals can form. We can learn a thing or two from our pets. :)

Here's a peek at The Great Rescue:

In The Great Rescue, the Hopelynns are excited to have Tucker join them in their home. As Tucker’s name changes to Phoenix, many other things change as well. He has left his friends behind at the shelter, and although he is happy with his new parents, he begins to feel lonely at the Hopelynn’s house.

Soon he will not be lonely. Phoenix will welcome his new furry sister, Tucson, into his home and show her that there is always room for more love . . . and adventure.




Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.

I am working on the first adventure that Phoenix and Tucson will go on. They will be introduced to another fun animal…and maybe it will turn into another unlikely friendship! :)

What advice do you have for other authors?

My advice is to always have fun writing. The minute that it feels like it is “work” is when an author has to review his/her purpose. Writing is all about expressing oneself and sharing thoughts with the world.

Anything else you want readers to know?

I also conduct presentations to children about becoming an author and the process of writing.

Where can readers find you and your books?

Readers can follow my blog and check out new adventures with Phoenix & Tucson at
www.dreamreacherbooks.com.  My book can be found on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.