Gloria Houston, like her great-aunt Arizona, is both a teacher and a native of the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Ms. Houston taught students of all ages -- from kindergarten through twelfth grade--for over fifteen years. Now she is author-in-residence at the University of South Florida's College of Education, where she teaches children's literature and writing.

Ms. Houston has written several books for children, including the best-sellingThe Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree,illustrated by Barbara Cooney, andLittleJim,illustrated by Thomas B. Allen. She lives in Tampa, Florida.

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Bestselling author Gloria Houston lovingly recounts the story of her great-aunt's quiet yet remarkable life. Born and raised in the Appalachian Mountains, Arizona spent her childhood dreaming of all the faraway places she would one day visit. Though she never did travel to those places, Arizona did become a teacher and helped generations of children craft their own dreams. Full color. [Edit review] [Delete review]

Arizona was born in a log cabin her papa built. She grew into a tall girl who liked to sing, square-dance, and -- most of all -- read and dream of the faraway places she would visit one day.

Arizona never did make it to those places. Instead she became a teacher, helping generations of children in the one-room schoolhouse which she herself had attended. Gloria Houston's Joyous recounting of her great-aunt Arizona's quiet yet meaningful life reminds us of the magical place a special teacher can hold in our hearts.

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