Ari Berk

Ari Berk is an award-winning writer, folklorist, artist, and scholar of literature, iconography, and comparative myth. Deeply dedicated to interdisciplinary writing, teaching, and research, Dr. Berk holds degrees in Ancient History (B.A.), American Indian Studies (M.A.), and Comparative Literature and Culture (Ph.D.). The former student of Pulitzer Prize-winning writer N. Scott Momaday, he has studied at Oxford and traveled widely, making friends in many parts of the world. As Professor of Folklore and Mythology at Central Michigan University, he teaches courses in those areas as well as American Indian studies, and medieval literature. He is the former editor of the Realms of Fantasy magazine's Folkroots section. Dr. Berk also sits on the board of directors of the Mythic Imagination Institute. Ari is the author of numerous books for children and adults. His latest books are Mistle Child, Death Watch, The Life and Times of William Shakespeare (with Kristen McDermott), The Secret History of Hobgoblins, The Secret History of Giants, The Secret History of Mermaids, How to Be a Viking, and Coyote Speaks -- Wonders of the Native American World (with Carolyn Dunn). He is also the author of The Runes of Elfland, Goblins! and Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Letters (all three with internationally known artist Brian Froud). His work has been translated into numerous languages. Born and raised in California, Ari now lives in Michigan with his wife and son. He has passed three times through a holed stone.