My award-winning Aunt Phil's Trunk Alaska history series, which began in 2006, is well known for its captivating storytelling and hundreds of historical photographs. And while I originally wrote the books for history buffs, it turns out children love reading my books, too. Recently I created an Alaska studies curriculum after parents and teachers hounded me to do so. My print and online programs now are used by thousands of school children across Alaska to learn about the state we love.

The Sourdough Cookery cookbook and 130-year-old sourdough starter (which originated in the gold fields of Hope, Alaska, in the 1890s with my great-grandfather) is popular around the globe, as well. (The cranberry chocolate cake recipe is one of our family favorites!)

So, who am I? I'm a third-generation Alaskan who loves sharing the history of my incredible state though my books, sourdough starter, and historical presentations. And I've been blessed that Aunt Phil's Trunk has been given the Best in Anchorage Award for Education for the past several years.