Zeb and Zoya

Early Writing Journey

Teri remembers having pen and paper in hand many times since childhood and has lost count of the college-lined notebooks she’s purchased over the years. Writing—and songwriting—have always been constants in her life, shaping her journey from early poems to published stories and music. The first song she remembers writing was in fourth grade at Brick School, where she wrote new lyrics to Roger Miller’s King of the Road (Trailers for Sale or Rent).

Creating Zeb and Zoya

Growing up in Beardstown, Illinois, she won a 5th-grade poetry contest that reinforced her love for writing. Over the years, she crafted poems, songs, and stories—some set aside, others shared. She contributed articles to her local newspaper, covering town meetings and interviewing residents, refining her storytelling skills. Before publishing her books, she edited writings for Marge, Marlene, and Jennifer—experiences that encouraged her to keep pursuing her dream. At 67, her persistence and refusal to give up led to the creation of Zeb and Zoya, a Christian adventure for children, 6-12 (and adults, too), proving that dreams have no expiration date.

Faith and Community

Her stories and songs, rooted in faith and family, draw from her experiences as a wife to Kendall, mother to Justin and Jody, and grandmother to Zoya, whose love for books inspired the series. She has also helped preserve memories for others, creating a keepsake journal for a friend using his late mother’s writings—an enduring gift for his family.

Beyond books, Teri shares devotions on ManyDevotions.com and music on Tippey.com, which lists songs recorded by various artists. She has spoken at prisons, churches, and women’s luncheons—and continues to do so whenever a door opens. She has taught Sunday school classes, led youth groups, and taught and spoken at churches, prisons, and ladies' luncheons—always striving to glorify the Lord and share the good news of the gospel any way she can, through invitations, writings, and more. She also volunteers in Life Kids at her church Life Family Church.

On May 28, the final revisions of Mad! Mad! Mad! were completed, and she was able to order the first proof of the book—making her late father's birthday even more meaningful.

Through writing books, songs, teaching, and speaking, Teri seeks to uplift, inspire, and teach as a Christian children’s book author while glorifying God and spreading His message.