Mark M. Dean and his family live in Southeast Ohio on a small horse farm nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. His endeavors as an author, lyricist, and poet are fueled by childhood memories of family tales and exploits of the colorful characters in his clan. Mark and his family have had the pleasure of living in ten states, stretching from Rhode Island to Arizona. They have also lived and traveled abroad. His 20 years of military service involved 12 family moves giving Mark keen insight into the importance of bonding through stories, songs and poems. Mark struggled with childhood dyslexia and now desires to give back to all those who helped him develop his imagination through reading and storytelling. He earned his undergraduate degree from Miami University while also playing ice hockey for the Redskins. He earned his Master's Degree from Ohio University.