Derek Munson is an award-winning children’s author, imagineer, and founder of Awestruck! Creative Enterprises whose writing and innovative motivational programs have been recognized by leading children’s literature groups such as Reading Rainbow and BookPALS.

Fascinated with the artistic process and inspired by all things unusual, Derek Munson, 32, began his writing habit at age 20 with a focus on philosophy and imagination.

His playful nature, respect for children, and a daydream that came to him while picking blackberries, resulted in the creation of Enemy Pie, his first published book.

Enemy Pie is well-acclaimed with eight awards, TV-based specials, including Reading Rainbow, and celebrity readings by BookPALS—members of the Screen Actors Guild.

The making of an enemy pie is the basis for Munson’s Kidspeak 101 workshops that emphasize creativity and harmonious relationship building.

Currently, Munson’s work focuses on the study of harmony and the creative experience. Three additional children’s books, as well as Teach the Teachers workshops, are coming in 2005.

When he is not writing, Munson enjoys delving into aikido, chess, long-boarding (www.pavedwave.com), and physics. He was born and raised in Redmond, Washington, and lives there today with his wife Suzanne, daughter Abigail, and baby son, Zack.