"I am an award-winning author and educator with over a decade of teaching and mentoring experience. I hold an MFA in Writing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, along with degrees in Journalism and Integrated Marketing Communication.

I'm a Bram Stoker Award and International Latino book award winning author and poet. I've been nominated for multiple Elgin Awards and I am a Locus Award Finalist and have been named one of Chicago's Lit 50, one of the most influential people in Chicago's literary scene.

My career has been built on helping readers and students connect deeply with language, story, and expression.

I have taught writing at the university and graduate level, led year-long novel programs, and instructed specialized workshops on literature, storytelling, and the craft of writing. My tutoring focuses on English, literature, language arts, and writing—from building strong foundations in reading comprehension and essay writing to advanced literary analysis and creative composition.

My approach combines patience, clear communication, and interactive strategies to help students gain confidence, strengthen their voice, and master essential skills. Whether guiding middle school, high school, or college students, I create supportive learning experiences that encourage growth, achievement, and a lifelong love of language." less...