I am Joyce P. Uglow, a children’s book author, poet, speaker, and former educator based in Burlington, WI. I’m the award-winning author of STUCK! The Story of La Brea Tar Pits (Bushel & Peck Books) and poetry in several print anthologies. I hold an MSE in Special Education and MSE in Educational Leadership and create thought-provoking, curiosity-driven children’s literature about nature, science, and our planet. I explore museums, national parks, mountains, and the ocean whenever I can. I currently serve as SCBWI Wisconsin’s Co-Regional Advisor and a mentor for Mighty Kidlit. I am a co-founder of uGROnews on Substack. Connect with me on Joyce P. Uglow Storied Ink on Substack, Instagram, Goodreads, and BlueSky Social, or just about any place poets and people with picture books are found.
When I was in fourth grade, my family moved to a new home out in the country. It was there that I got the notion to be a creative writer. My favorite topic for my stories was my pony, Taffy. I longed to write like Marguerite Henry in Misty of Chincoteague. But my favorite story character was Pippy Longstocking. She could always find a creative solution on her own; her independent nature inspired me.
My writing motto: Be curious. Stay unwaveringly committed to seeking answers.
When I write, I think about my childhood questions that still tug at my heart.
When I write, I think about my three sons and grandchildren, my family and our vacations, and the children I had the distinct pleasure of teaching.
When I read, I breathe in intriguing and compelling stories.
When I write, I ink my thinking. I am forever grateful to teachers I worked alongside and my teachers who guided me to love learning.
I write nonfiction and informational fiction using lyrical language to keep kids’ curiosity alive and open their minds to the world. We are never stuck when we soak up what others share.
Leave a Reply