CHANDLER, AZ (March 13, 2017) – It’s been 23 years in the making. After more than 1,500 school and library visits in 17 different states, science writer, editor, national award-winning children’s author and master storyteller Conrad J. Storad is set to reach a personal goal. On Thursday, March 16, during author presentations for the more than 600 students at Kyrene de la Mariposa Elementary School in Chandler, Arizona, he will read to his one millionth student.
“It’s exciting! What a privilege it has been to be asked to visit so many schools and libraries over the years,” says Storad. “I’m honored that I’ve had the opportunity to make even a small impact on numerous young people.”
Storad, currently the science and nature editor for Story Monsters Ink® magazine, has written more than 50 science and nature books for children and young adults, including the USA Best Book winner Rattlesnake Rules, the ONEBOOKAZ for Kids 2012 selection Arizona Way Out West & Witty (co-authored with Lynda Exley), and Monster in the Rocks, the 2014 Arizona selection for the "52 Great Reads” program sponsored by the Library of Congress Center for the Book.
“I believe a good nonfiction story should be more than just the facts,” says Storad. “Seeing kids’ faces light up when I talk to them about science or nature in a way that connects for them is what makes my job fun.”