Jolley, Mary Locke: - Mary Locke Jolley earned a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from California State University Fresno and a bachelor of arts degree in English with minors in Spanish and Creative Writing from Southern Virginia University. After teaching college writing for ten years, she decided to chase her dream to sit in her pajamas all day and play with her imaginary friends (also known as writing books). Mary's huge family is where she draws her inspiration, especially her 26 nieces and nephews (soon to be 27!). When not writing, Mary is usually hanging out at the river; snuggling with her dog, Gallifrey; baking a sweet treat; or playing video games. Mary lives in the foothills of Northern California.