Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up and have always lived in Kansas. I have a love and pride for Kansas, the Bread Basket and Air Capital of America. This is reflected in my writing by the Kansas values of God and Family. In addition to that, my first Young Adult novel, "World of Shawn," takes place in Kansas: in Lawrence, the home of the University of Kansas Jayhawks (Rock Chalk Jayhawk!), where I got my Master's Degree in Computer Science; in Overland Park, a suburb of Kansas City (where I met my wife); and, briefly, in a mention of Wichita (where I live)!
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