Patty Sherin

My desk is a reflection of my life. If it's cluttered with a bunch of projects I’m working on then my mind is cluttered. However, if my desk is clean and orderly then my life is clean and orderly. I prefer the latter. My desk is a large wooden table where I can work on my various projects. It has my computer with wireless keyboard and mouse. I usually have a cup of coffee on it and a notepad with various pen colors. I love markers and pens, especially rainbow colors. If I could live in a rainbow, I would. My desk has plenty of space to build a LEGO model, do some watercolors, or spread out books when I'm doing research. My notepad has to be my most important item on my desk nowadays because it helps me keep my thoughts organized and allows me to stay open to new possibilities.

I grew up in Elmhurst, Queens in New York City during the 1970s and 80s. Growing up in such a diverse community had a significant influence on my writing. The community in Elmhurst was characterized by a mix of different cultures and languages, and I always appreciated the opportunity to learn about and connect with people from different backgrounds. This diversity also helped shape my understanding of the world and my appreciation for different cultures and ways of being. The constant influx of new immigrant groups also gave me a sense of the changing nature of communities and the way that different groups can shape and influence a place. All of these experiences have had a lasting impact on my writing and my perspective on the world.