Books have been my constant companions ever since I was a young child, transporting me to realms of endless imagination and intrigue. My passion for reading ignited in the third grade, thanks to a remarkable teacher who saw something special in me.

Mrs. Pelicane, my third-grade teacher, challenged me to find just one book that I liked, offering a $10 reward as an incentive. Little did she know that this simple act would spark a lifelong love affair with the written word. She took me to a bookstore, and there, amidst rows upon rows of books, I discovered the Goosebumps series. From that moment on, my world was forever changed.

You see, Mrs. Pelicane had recognized that I was dyslexic, which explained my struggles with reading and comprehension. But instead of letting me fall through the cracks, she found a way to make reading accessible and enjoyable for me. By having books read aloud while I followed along, I could finally immerse myself in the stories that had eluded me before.

From the spooky thrills of Goosebumps, my literary adventures expanded into realms of fantasy, murder mysteries, true crime, and so much more. I became insatiable, devouring tales of intrigue, suspense, and imagination with a fervor that knew no bounds. Books became my escape, my sanctuary, and my constant companions.

To this day, I owe my love for reading to the patience and guidance of Mrs. Peloquin. She saw beyond my struggles and unlocked a world of wonder that has enriched my life in countless ways. With every book I read, I am reminded of her kindness and the transformative power of storytelling.

So, whether I'm lost in a fantastical realm, unraveling a complex mystery, or delving into the darkest corners of true crime, I carry with me the gift that Mrs. Peloquin bestowed upon me – a love for books that knows no bounds.