Growing up's a mystery...

Growing up as a shy, insecure child, the youngest of four kids, books were my escape. I could be anything or anyone. So, who did I chose to be? I found myself drawn to boldly confident, intelligent characters like, Nancy Drew. I was enamored by her quick wit, ability to problem solve and help those around her.

My mother had scads of Nancy Drew books that she and my sister had read. I remember traipsing down to the basement after reading all the books on the shelf in the hall to scour the Nancy Drew box for another adventure. I recall wishing my eyes could process the words faster as she would creep up the attic stairs or open the ominous box. To date, mystery novels are my favorite to read for pleasure. Authors like John Grissom or Michael Connelly make me feel like a kid in a candy store. I remember thinking that having Nancy Drew meet the Hardy Boys was, “like the greatest idea ever!” I also remember learning I had to hide the Hardy Boys books from other peers if I checked them out because apparently, those were ‘boys’ books.

My family always encouraged me to read any books I wanted and introduced me to other genres that allowed my imagination to flourish, while still drawing on my desire for adventure and mystery. My oldest brother, Rob, paved the way with Piers Anthony’s land of Xanth series and many more. Being lost between the pages of a book, completely immersed in another’s life, emotions, and excitement are some of the many reasons why the ability to read is one of the greatest gifts a person can give a child. Life is instantly transformed and the troubles of daily happenings can be put on hold for a while. Reading is the window to another world full of endless possibilities.