I have been an avid reader ever since I was introduced to Dick, Jane and Spot as a child. When I grew just a little older, I became fascinated with the Hardy Boys and bought all of their books. At the tender age of 14 and using my allowance, I joined the Doubleday Dollar Book Club and all of a sudden the entire world opened up. I discovered that history could be so incredibly fascinating when told as a story. Sci Fi and space travel became something where I could ride along and be a passenger as fascinating characters travelled from one galaxy to another. I rode Dragons on Pern and travelled through the magical world of Xanth. Vampires were familiar characters that were never feared, except for those who didn't believe. As I grew to recognise my own sexuality, I was able to relate to so much more than I ever thought I could because of the books that were available to me. All of these fictional characters have helped to shape my life and broaden my mind. They have been amazing teachers.