Bio: Vikk Simmons is the author of Divided Loyalties, a young adult novel, released in August, 2004. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from Vermont College and teaches writing at a local community college. In addition to being a certified journal writing instructor through the Center for Journal Therapy, Vikk has facilitated Artist Way groups for more than five years. She often speaks at conferences, workshops, schools and organizations on creativity and the craft and business of writing. Vikk is also co-author of three travel books (Exploring Houston with Children, Exploring the Arts and Cultures in Houston with Children (Mar, 2005), and Exploring History in Texas: Weekend Adventures (2005). Although she's an avid photographer and traveler, Vikk often finds some of her best opportunities for photography at home. A confirmed booklover, she is constantly reading a wide range of material, including the latest and best in crime fiction. Vikk lives in Houston, Texas with her three canine companions: Beau, Riley and Teddy.