Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, Brenda Bokenyi carried her sketchbook with her during the school day drawing the objects in front of her. When she earned her BA in Fine Arts at Brandeis University, her focus was on sculpture. Her love of 3-D medium is evident in the texture of her current work using homemade cut paper to create collage illustrations. During the day she teaches children how to read in Spanish and English while dreaming up new characters to draw and write about. An active member of SCBWI, she interacts with critique groups regularly and continues to sharpen her skills through Storyteller Academy courses. Brenda lives in Oregon with her partner. She is currently seeking a new dog and representation.