Steven L. Layne is a faculty member in the Department of Education at Judson College in Elgin, Illinois, where he teaches courses in children's and adolescent literature and reading pedagogy. He also serves as a literacy consultant, motivational speaker and featured children's author, both in and outside the United States. Steve's work has been recognized with national awards for outstanding work and contributions in the fields of both educational research and teaching. In addition, he is the author of a wide variety of award-winning picture books, young adult novels and gift books. He lives with his wife, Deborah; children, Grayson, Victoria and Jackson; and dog, Snickers, in St. Charles, Illinois.