ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Corinne Escobar Griffiths grew up in Norwalk, California, a suburb of Los Angeles.  Her father and grandfather owned the local Ford Agency from 1925 until 1966.  Her grandfather also raised Angus Cattle in Norwalk on the property that is now Cerritos College. There were always horses around so Griffiths learned to ride before she could walk!
 
The stories of her many predicaments during her childhood were so funny and amazing, she thought it would be perfect fodder for a children's novel.  After four years of writing and editing, her book became a reality.
 
Since 1998, Griffiths has written the "On Campus" column for the Orange County Register's weekly newspapers:  The Yorba Linda Star and The Placentia News-Times.  She lauds the accomplishments of the students, teachers, volunteers, and other staff members of the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District.
 
After divorcing, she went back to college and received her Bachelors Degree in Liberal Studies and her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.  Since 1992, she has taught sixth grade.  Griffiths has three daughters and two grandchildren. 

ABOUT THE BOOK

From the moment of her birth, Constance Kathleen seemed too formal a name for such a precocious little girl, so she soon became known as Corky. 

From investigating a tomato worm in the garden to drawing a line down the middle of her bedroom, Corky dealt with her environment in creative ways. 

Corky's older sister Diane set a precedence of impeccable behavior.  Dottie, the enthusiastic and typical 1950s mother, kept Corky in line with ritualistic bath-time punishments and unwavering consistency.  Walter, Corky's soft-spoken father, taught her of duty and honor to country and community.  Both gave her the comforting feel of security and love. 

Although Corky's love for animals sometimes caused heartache, the deaths and disappointments made her a stronger person.  Each experience taught Corky a valuable lesson of life.  Through all her trials and tribulations, Corky becomes ready and able to take on Junior High School!

STUDENT REVIEWS

"Wow! I do like your Corky book!  I like it because it is funny.  One of  my favorite things to do is reading, next art and playing games.  I hate doing my homework."

- John Lee, 4th grade


"I like your book and I'd like to buy it.  You're a great author and I admire you."

- Connie Paik, 4th grade


"I couldn't believe you got in such crazy situations!"

-Justin Mason, 5th grade


"You had a real interesting life and it was fun to see it in print."

-Brianna Rubalcava, 5th grade


"What a great book!!  I've wanted this book since the 4th grade!  The book is funny and creative."

-Alex Park, 6th grade


"Corky Eckelsbriar was the funniest book I've ever read!"

-Maggie Cummings, 6th grade