Laura Marie (Rounkles) Balster grew up in Lucas, Kansas, as the youngest of seven children. She was greatly influenced by her childhood experiences in this small Midwest town, and is proud of her C...voir plusLaura Marie (Rounkles) Balster grew up in Lucas, Kansas, as the youngest of seven children. She was greatly influenced by her childhood experiences in this small Midwest town, and is proud of her Czech (and Native American Indian) heritage. The literary arts have always held a special place in Laura’s heart, and writing has been one of her passions. When in high school, she had a poem selected for publication and was paid tribute as a “Young Kansas Writer”. Laura attended Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 1991. Earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, she majored in Political Science and received a minor in English. Laura is also the author of “Brandy,” a novel published in 2010. She lives with her family in Maryville, Illinois.voir moins