FAQ
I wanted to truly separate fact from fiction, and by calling these stories, which to some might best be described as falling within the "shaggy dog" realm, "fables" I hoped that readers would understand not to take them seriously. Although having said that, there are themes within them that are important to me: Diversity, kindness, a willingness to grow, love - of all kinds.
And there are, of course, animals.
I figured Peter Maradudin was more of tough handle for most folks - I always have to spell it out. I also thought that should my books ever grace a retail bookstore, this would place me at the front of the section, as opposed to the middle of the pack. Also, to be truly honest, I had some concern that people in the Bay Area might think I was making fun of them, which I'm not, but like Emperor Norton, the Bay Area is replete with larger than life characters - it would almost be impossible to not have them indirectly influence the writing. And, lastly, I thought it was a little more exotic.