Sarah Laurenson

Author, Vegetarian, Software Geek

There are certain constants in my life – things that I have yet to do: get a J.D., teach algebra, become a published children’s book author, join the Peace Corp. Law, math, making a difference in a child’s life, making a difference in a corner of the world. My life goals.

What do I want to be when I grow up? The question I put on hold after my first time through college (where I received a B.A. in Law Enforcement). After mentally trying on different hats, I turned to my first love from childhood – science. For three of the next four years, I worked full time and went to school full time while earning a B.S. in Physics. The journey led me to discover the exciting blend of logic and creativity in computer programming. I added to my self-taught beginnings by taking software classes.

Since 1991, I have developed software for aerospace and defense contractors with one Research and Development foray into Linux kernel programming. Having a natural talent and love for software has made this enjoyable and rewarding.

In 2000, I joined SCBWI (The Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators). It was a return to my most basic passion. I have always been a writer. My first 'book' was a collection of short stories and poems that I gave to my sixth grade teacher. It was an amateur attempt at a bribe. Not sure if it worked. I have since graduated from short story bribes to writing Middle Grade and Young Adult fiction.

Now, I spend my time working a full time software job, being the SCBWI Tri-Regions webmistress, being a Board member for the Los Angeles region of the SCBWI, and writing. It does keep me busy.