About Me

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D.A. D’Aurelio grew up in Ocala, Florida known for thoroughbred horses and lovebug season, which comes twice a year. D.A. has lived in five states along three coasts and visited many states in between. She enjoys finding out how people choose to work, live and play. She draws on these experiences and combines fact with fiction in her middle grade stories. Currently, she lives in Atlanta, GA with her husband and two children. 

Where do you get your ideas? 

It's true that some ideas just pop into your head, but most of the time they are triggered by some experience in your life. Some of my ideas happen as I'm falling asleep at night, so I keep a notebook and pencil next to my bed. But most ideas come from various sources--- brainstorming, research and talking to others and observing total strangers (not in a creepy, stalker way). 

What made you want to write books for children? 

Growing up, I was always creating something. My parents had more macrame hangers, knitted pot holders and handmade ornaments than they knew what to do with. Most of all, I loved stories---whether they were in books, television or movies. I loved how a story developed, grabbing the audience at the beginning and guiding them through, while getting to know the characters and experiencing the plot along with them. One of the first stories I ever wrote was about a kid who got sucked into a cereal box and had to complete all the puzzles on the back in order to escape. That one hasn't sold yet---hmmm. 

What is the best advice for writers? 

Dedicate time to write and set deadlines for yourself. I treat writing like a job and although the pay isn't great, the rewards are wonderful.