Frequently Asked Questions
Where did you grow up and what did you like to do as a kid?
I grew up in Pennsylvania and Ohio, where my favorite activities were reading, playing soccer, dancing, and writing stories that I begged my sister to perform with me.
Why do you have two last names and how are they pronounced?
My maiden name is Varchol. My family pronounces it “VAR-shull” (to rhyme with “Marshall”), but it’s a Polish name and is pronounced differently in Polish.
My married name is Perron, and we pronounce it “Puh-ROAN” (to rhyme with “the tone”).
My parents didn’t give me a middle name, so I made Varchol my middle name when I got married. I like my husband’s name, but Varchol is also a big part of who I am. (It means troublemaker in Polish, which I love!)
When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve written poems, songs, and stories since I was a kid and have probably always wanted to be a writer, but it took me a long time to pursue it professionally. I worked as an actor in my early 20s and then went to graduate school to become a clinical social worker. Throughout that time, I continued writing and often shared my work at open mic events. It wasn’t until after I had kids and remembered how much I love children’s books that I decided to try to turn my passion for writing into a new career.
What are your favorite kinds of books to read and write?
I love to read books that make me feel something deeply. When I’m writing, I ask myself what a reader might feel during and after reading. Very often, I hope to spark curiosity and wonder, but sometimes it’s more about comfort and connection. No matter what, I think it’s vital for kids to explore and have access to a wide range of books, which is why libraries are so important!
