About Cynthia Reeg

Where were you born?
I was born in the breezy Kansas prairie town of Hays—probably most well-known for such short-time citizens as Wild Bill Hickok and Lt. Colonel George Custer. Although I've moved around the Midwest a fair amount (14 different cities in 6 states), I still consider myself a Kansas native and the bright yellow Kansas state flower—the sunflower—is still my favorite flower.

What were you like as a kid?
I was something of a tomboy, trying to keep pace with my older brother, Frank—riding bikes and playing baseball. But I also loved to play dolls with my friends and create stories about their adventures.

Did you like to read?
I loved to read! As soon as I'd mastered the basics of reading, I was off and running. When I'd finished reading all my books from school, I'd start reading Frank's books. My parents bought us a collection of folktales and fairy tales. I'd make my younger brother, Glenn, sit still long enough so I could read them to him—over and over again.

Did you like school?
I liked school because I liked to learn things, all different kinds of things—but especially reading and writing. The areas I found most challenging were math and science. But I ended up marrying a man who excelled in math—my husband Rob. And then we had two boys, Matt and Dan, who loved reading and spending time at the library just like me.

When did you start writing?
I began writing stories and poems in elementary school. A few won local prizes or were published in local newspapers. I enjoyed the acclaim, but mostly I wrote because I enjoyed writing so much—taking a blank page and making it come to life with characters. In high school, college, and beyond, I continued taking classes to improve my writing skills. After years working as a librarian, I decided I wanted to write full time.

Does anyone help you with your writing?
Lots of people! My family--especially my husband--is very supportive of my writing. Two writers' groups I belong to help review my writing and give me wonderful suggestions to make it better. My friends also encourage me greatly. And of course, students in the schools I visit and volunteer at give me all kinds of new story ideas.

What do you do for fun?
I think writing is loads of fun. But I also enjoy playing tennis, dancing, and reading.

Do you have any pets?
I have three special pets, my kitties Herman and Henry, and my new puppy, Holly. They hang around my office part of every day, so they're the first ones to hear my stories and always offer their input. Herman is a black and white tuxedo kitty. His fur design looks like he's wearing a tuxedo. So, of course, he tends to put on airs a bit, but he loves to snuggle. Henry is a yellow and white tiger-striped kitty who has never outgrown his kitty clumsiness, which is why we all love him so. Holly is a Schnoodle—a poodle and Schnauzer mix dog. She has lots of energy and makes us laugh. She’s already inspired me to write one dog story. I’m sure she’ll help me with lots more.