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"The more you read, the more things you know.
 The more that you learn, the more places you'll go!"
                                                                        - Dr. Suess

About the Author

Karen F. Skirten
A passionate advocate for literacy, Karen was intrigued by a social media suggestion of wrapping up 24 Christmas books and reading one to your child each night before Christmas. After reposting the idea she was thrilled to see some enthusiastic responses but also dismayed at some of the subsequent comments, "Good luck finding 24 children stories about Christmas" and "Nice if you can afford it." She decided to blog a story each day for 24 days herself, hoping the stories would inspire children, young and old, about the true meaning of Christmas, while learning some important life values. When readership of the site grew and readers started to ask, "When can I buy this book?" Karen decided to publish this heartfelt collection of stories with the hopes that it will become a cherished family tradition in every reader’s home. 
Karen was born in Saskatoon, SK and feels blessed to have been raised in a home full of love, laughter and books.  The Christmases she had growing up at 1802 Louise Avenue with her family and friends inspired many of the stores in The Shining Star.  Her parents made every Christmas special for her and her three siblings, all of whom make an appearance in the book along with extended family and friends.
After 24 years in Calgary, Karen has just moved home to Saskatoon, SK. This picture of her beloved Schnorkie Emma is from her first Christmas with the family. Karen is an avid reader, traveler and loves to entertain, especially at Christmas!
After years of working for an airline, a staffing service and a fashion merchandiser, Karen now loves working from home as a travel agent as it affords her the time to write.  She dedicates her volunteer time to Executive Women International, for whom she was the 2012-2013 Corporate President.  EWI's main philanthropic focus is literacy.