Young adult author Maria Padian has worn many professional hats: news reporter, congressional press secretary, freelance writer, and novelist. Her award-winning books for teen and tween readers include Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress, Jersey Tomatoes Are the Best, Out of Nowhere, Wrecked, and How to Build a Heart. A graduate of Middlebury College and the University of Virginia, Maria lives in Brunswick with her family where she is at work on a new novel.