Kara Casanova has written magazine articles and essays in numerous publications throughout the United States and the UK, and has more than 25 years’ experience writing business, marketing and media materials, as well as writing grants for children’s charities and education. Her style of essay has been called “beautifully poignant” by Lois White, former Editor-in-Chief, Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Publications. Kara credits the late Erma Bombeck with influencing her essay writing, which fluctuates between humorous and keenly felt observations on life and motherhood. She received an Honorable Mention in The Scriveners for her short-short story, “Choosing Florencia’s Brother” (1996). Elvis the Penguin is her first published book, and her first fictional publication. She came up with the idea for the story while baking cookies for her children. When not dodging hurricanes, Kara resides with her family in a home beside a bayou in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.