Irene Dunlap, co-author of Chicken Soup for the Kid's Soul and Chicken Soup for the Preteen Soul began her writing career in elementary school when she discovered her love for creating poetry, a passion she believes to have inherited from her paternal grandmother. She expressed her love for words through writing fictional short stories, lyrics, as a participant in speech competitions and eventually as a vocalist.

During her college years, Irene traveled around the world as a student of the Semester at Sea program aboard a ship that served as a classroom, as well as home base, for over 500 college students. After earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications, she became the Media Director of Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre in Irvine, California. She went on to co-own an advertising and public relations agency that specialized in entertainment and health care clients.

While working on Chicken Soup books, which she sees as a difference-making blessing, Irene continues to support her two teens with their interests in music, theatre and sports activities. She also carries on a successful singing career, performing various styles ranging from jazz to contemporary Christian in clubs, at church and at special events.

Irene lives in Newport Beach, California with her husband, Kent, daughter, Marleigh, son Weston, and Austrialian Shepard, Gracie. In her spare time, Irene enjoys horseback riding, painting, gardening and cooking. If you are wondering how she does it all, she will refer you to her favorite bible passage for her answer - Ephesians 3:20.

If you would like to contact Irene, write to her at:

Irene Dunlap
P.O. Box 10879
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Phone 949-645-5240
e-mail: cs4kids@aol.com
www.LifeWriters.com