Who is this Middle Grade author?

Here are some clues:

Clue #1

Once ran into the middle of a large sticker briar field when running from a dog.

Clue #2

Went out of the country for the first time at age eight because their uncle was trying out for a pro football team.

Clue #3

Was a modern day latch key kid (came home alone while parents were at work).

Clue #4

Can only pull into parking spaces (boooo parallel parking).

Clue #5

Writes for young readers because adults think they know everything already (spoiler – they don’t).

Come back tomorrow to find out the answer AND to read an interview with them.

Happy guessing!