Sue Schell

Author Sue Schell,an admitted social and political observer of life, says "after 25 years in the business world, there were not many desk jobs I haven't done. I spent a good part of my life working as a news/feature reporter for a Chicago newspaper where I was introduced to Governor Jim Thompson, whose administration I went to work for and eventually, I was made Director of the Illinois Racing Board. Besides knowing how government business was carried out, I became a small business owner, and a political activist. Just ask me someday and I'll be happy to relate some of the crazy things I've seen."

Schell describes growing up in Chicago this way, "I grew up in a small Chicago bungalow in the heart of the city. Our family was middle class all the way, actually probably lower middle class, although at the time, I wouldn't have known the difference. Once I graduated with my degree in journalism/English from the University of Illinois at Chicago, I grabbed onto that American Dream, which I write about in A Simplicity Revolution, because for me, that Dream has always represented the best of what America is about.

Schell explains that when I was thinking of writing this book, as chance would have it, I came upon a quote from Margaret Mead that I use to open my book. The quote being: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed people can change the world indeed it is the only thing that ever has"-Margaret Mead.

Schell tells this story,"I will never forget the day back in the mid-1970s', when as a sophomore working on my college newspaper at the University of Illinois; I received a phone call from the secretary of the famous anthropologist, telling me that Dr. Mead was willing to sit down with me for an interview. I felt so unworthy to even be in her presence, and I always remember with great gratitude that Dr. Mead treated me as a legitimate reporter. When, these many years later, I ran across her famous quotation, I felt as though Margaret Mead was speaking directly to me again.I realized that I had to write this book. I sincerely hope you will continue with me as we explore a new trend based on the much older truth that, by embracing simplicity, we can live a life of meaning, enjoyment, and more fulfillment that truly reflects-and restores-the "real" American dream.

Ironically, its message appeared completely relevant to the issues currently challenging our country. Because my book is a timely focus on how America became a culture of entitlement assuming our economic growth would always continue...but then, it didn't! In the book, A Simplicity Revolution, Schell states, "I intended for this book to be an enlightening, enjoyable read! People need to know that there are ways to simplify their lives and how to free themselves from the debt treadmill that I talk about in my book." There is much to be gained by living a more mindful existence. I explained ways for people to go forward in life placing value not on the kinds of things that can be purchased, but in their relationships with family and friends, community, our schools and churches. Perhaps this recession was a necessary interlude on our path to a saner more fulfilled reality. The good news is that this important crossroad is going to lead us back to unleashing American ingenuity and creativity, creating new jobs for Americans, Schell writes!

Today, Schell describing her life work today, says this:

"I spend much of my time working with CARE, Community Animal Rescue Effort, finding homes for every homeless animal we rescue. I also continue working on my next book, a historical fiction that I hope to have published next year. I have served as a Board Member for the Media Literacy Project, a Board Member on The Southeast Evanston Board and a Board Member for the Democratic Party of Evanston."

Schell portray's her daily life, as such "I live a common but happy life in Evanston, Illinois surrounded by my husband and son,as well as other family members and have the most wonderful friends a person could ask for. And, oh yes, not to be forgotten are the two little dogs, Mac and Lily. We are fortunate to live near Lake Michigan and just 25 minutes from downtown Chicago by train."

Henry David Thoreau - "SIMPLICITY, SIMPLICITY,SIMPLICITY!"