A great part of my life has been about reading and learning. The first book to make a powerful impact on me was Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Although I read many other books, including biographies, other works of fiction, and historical narratives, it was reading this book that first sparked my imagination and gave me to realize how pleasant reading can be--and not just works of fiction, but non-fiction as well. One of the most personally satisfying experiences I have had in my life was passing on my love of reading to my children. Then, not too long ago, I became a professional educator, and this, too, has been a gratifying experience. It is my pleasure to pass on the love of reading and the love of learning to the younger generation. Out of my love of reading, I have come to see myself as a life-long learner, and it is my hope to spark the interest of others to continue in the pursuit of learning for its own sake, even as much as for career and college readiness.