Having fallen in love with books as a child, Pat Pflieger earned a BA in literature, then an MA in children's literature, then a PhD in American Studies (with an emphasis in children's literature). She's published a reference book on works of fantasy for children and the first book-length discussion of Beverly Cleary's books; she's also the author of a picture book.
Now she's writing and self-publishing for children. She also transcribes and edits interesting early-American works for adults and children. And reads. A lot.