Writer and Social Worker Angelie Tumaghap Martzke

This week’s Writer Wednesday features Angelie Tumaghap Martzke!

Angelie is a writer and social worker from Royal Oak, Michigan. Her stories and articles have been published by Autism Parenting Magazine and Skipping Stones Magazine.  

Her article, “Battle of Bataan,” and picture book, “Battle of Gecko Hall,” were recently selected as 2025 Detroit Writing Room Awards finalists in the non-fiction and children’s book manuscript categories, respectively. Both will be published in the book “Detroit Voices” releasing this December.

When she’s not writing or hanging out with her husband, two kids and two dogs, she enjoys playing weekly mom league volleyball at the local community center.  Learn more about her below!

What writing projects are you currently working on?

I’m currently revising picture book manuscripts and slowly coming up with new ones. I’m also working on a chapter book whose young main character is travelling with her family abroad and they may or may not be encountering witches! 

What is your favorite part of the writing process?

I enjoy creating stories, coming up with characters (what they look like, what they like, their age, how they think/move, etc.), and thinking of what the problem is and how it can be solved as the story moves along. 

What does your writing workspace look like?

I have a few places I consider my “workstation.”  I can be found in my kitchen typing away on my kids’ craft table (being around their stuff inspires me), in the dining room (for a change of scenery and there is less clutter there) or upstairs in my office nook (sometimes being surrounded by books in a small area can be so comforting to me). Other times, I’m in a coffee shop (being around others can be so fun and invigorating. And, I LOVE coffee!)

When did you first discover your love for writing? Were there any key moments or influences that sparked your passion?

I would have to say 7th grade when my English class had us write a short story. I had so much fun with the project and coming up with the story (mine was a mystery type). We each had a partner, and we took turns sharing our stories and giving each other feedback on it. This creative process was such a core memory for me. From then on, I just loved the idea of storytelling.   
What is your favorite non-writing hobby?

Does eating count? I love trying a new restaurant in the city, and I also love watching Detroit sports teams.  

Follow Angelie on Instagram at @angelietumaghap

— Interview by Olivia Han