How did this lead to a book about dragons and octopuses?
I had not yet taken Probability, a prerequisite, but the textbook used very little. So I asked the instructor to let me take his course.
The first two weeks were a “quick review” of Probability. I was hopelessly lost.
I’m an intuitive thinker. My mind can jump to the right answer without knowing how. So I answered questions correctly but without understanding.
But that was not to be. The professor took me aside after class and handed me a hefty textbook. “Learn this. In four weeks I’ll give you another test and I expect you to pass.”
Yikes! I worked a job in addition to being a full-time student. At least it was a well-written textbook.
Later, he offered me a job as a tutor for the Math department.
I made simple tests to find important holes in understanding and drew pictures to illustrate concepts. Soon, chemistry students found their way to my office so I helped them, too.
I drew pictures and cartoons for my Crystal books. I connected math and chemistry with rocks: the angles of the crystals are the angles of the chemical bonds. I used shark tooth ratios. I learned a new way to write.
Chemistry and Math have a universal language that transcends countries and worlds. Understanding helps us appreciate the interconnected life on our planet, and the dangers of plastics and other pollution.
Crystal Geometry” and “Crystal Colors” were created to help people understand and appreciate science and math. They're now used in schools and homes.
My mind was hijacked.
I knew dragon customs and legends I’d never heard of. Dragon Arak and Octopus Scree were born.
My math class led to tutoring which led to my Crystal books. This led to the Dragon Dreamer series.
Earth octopuses are at least as intelligent as human beings, while dragons are forever fascinating. Dragon Dreamer dragons and octopuses are quite civilized with unique legends, art, and music.
How could an octopus heal a dragon? And why? Writing as an octopus and then as a dragon is fun; I love the range of abilities and diversity of minds. Their unique friendship develops an appreciation of differences.
“The Dragon Dreamer” and “Dragon Lightning” are my first two novels. This Science Fantasy Adventure series is for young adults 9 to 99.
"The Dragon Dreamer" e-books: www.books2read.com/u/bWZOoq
"Dragon Lightning" e-books: www.books2read.com/u/3k0nOn
“This is not a typical dragon fantasy story, and is very different to things I've read before. Certainly suited to younger readers, but I - as an adult - very happily drank it in from cover to cover.” ~ Amazon Review
“Who would have thought about story of a friendship between a dragon and an octopus would be so incredibly interesting? Well, obviously, the author did, because she did a fantastic job of weaving a fanciful story with actual facts about octopi and other marine life.
I adored all the characters.” ~ Goodreads Review