Edgar-nominated author Bruce Hale is passionate about inspiring reluctant readers to open books (and actually read them). He has written or illustrated over 60 seriously funny books for children, including the award-winning Chet Gecko Mysteries series and Snoring Beauty (one of Oprah’s Recommended Reads for Kids), as well as Clark the Shark and The Monstertown Mysteries. An actor and Fulbright Scholar in Storytelling, Bruce is in demand as a speaker, having presented at conferences, universities, and schools both nationally and internationally. His acting resume includes regional commercials, theater, and an independent film, The Ride. Bruce also sings with Mezcal Martini, a latin jazz combo in Santa Barbara.