When I was ten, I was grounded for reading a book while riding my bike.

Reading has always been an integral part of my life, from my very first Ramona Quimby chapter book to the stories I read today (most recently, Keisha N. Blain's captivating memoir of Fannie Lou Hamer: "Until I am Free").

Born and raised in St. Louis, I am a passionate Cardinals baseball fan. During summer months, I can often be found listening to game broadcasts while hiking or paddle-boarding near Denver, where I currently reside.