About the Writer

Maria Petty is 14 years old and a student at Lake Travis High School in Texas. She enjoys swimming and running track and has recently acquired the hobby of singing. Maria plans to become a marine biologist, and keep writing an important part of her life.

"Having had heart problems myself, I began to realize how fragile the heart can be, both physically and metaphorically. Instead of being regarded as only a muscle, I wanted to bring the emotional importance of the heart back. Overcoming anorexia was one of my biggest obstacles, but I realize how much I have learned!"