I’m pretty sure if it would have been possible, I would have been born with a book in my tiny hands – painful though that would have been for my mom. (Ouch–sorry mom.) I’m not a reading snob—I read everything from People Magazine to the musings of philosopher Epictetus, but mostly stick to the stuff in between. I have a strange fondness for true life crime, but absolutely refuse to read any book in which a dog dies. I have been known to skip to the end to check. Dead dog? Nope, not reading it. I don’t care how heartwarming it is (and heartwarming is always code for “dead dog”—so watch out.)

I am currently the Chair of Teacher Education at DePaul University in Chicago Illinois, where I have been teaching since 1992. I have a PhD from the University of Illinois-Chicago. I am the Past President of the Illinois Reading Council and have served as the editor of their widely respected journal for the last several years. Prior to my time at DePaul, I taught junior high in Chicago. I’ve been told I have to brag about myself in this part, which I’m not particularly comfortable with, but here goes. I have facilitated over $1million in literacy-related grants. I have received the DePaul University Excellence in Teaching Award and the Excellence in Public Service Award. I’m a member of the Illinois Reading Council Hall of Fame and also received their Parents and Literacy Award. I was recognized by the non-profit Association House of Chicago for work with their literacy and technology programs.

I know a lot more than most people about Dr. Seuss, about the history of women’s bowling, and about 1970s TV shows. You’d be surprised how often some of that info comes in handy.

And while I may not really have been born with a book in my hand, I always have one with me now. I have way too many favorite authors to list (and I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings by not saying it’s them.)

That’s more than enough about me! Let’s get on with our literacy explorations.