A former teacher, Mann writes award winning nonfiction books that engage even the most reluctant reader. When one student asked Mann how she began her writing career, she said "I wanted to write something for my class to help them learn about the Brooklyn Bridge." Her desire to inspire her students rekindled her childhood dream of becoming a writer. Mann went on to write her first children's book The Brooklyn Bridge. Finding a publisher for her book was more difficult than she anticipated. After a series of rejections she decided to self-publish. With help from her husband, she founded Mikaya Press. "All of the students were enamored by her determination," noted parent volunteer Rennick Despeignes.