About Ryan

Welcome!

I’m a veteran K-12 educator who has served as a school librarian, English teacher, and academic advisor. In 2023, I established my own company, Pinestar Educational, through which I offer private tutoring and academic coaching, creative writing mentorship, curriculum development, educational consulting, and editing services.

I’m also an author. A few years into teaching English, I began taking my own writing seriously because I realized I needed to do what I was asking my students to do: draft regularly and share my writing with an audience. I began sharing my writing with my students so they could see I was invested in the process, too.

Eventually, I started sharing my writing with adults as well.

My first professional book for educators, The 21st Century School Library, which details how teachers and administrators can better utilize their school library and school librarian(s), was published in fall 2021 by John Catt Educational.

My debut picture book, Rostam’s Picture-Day Pusteen (illustrated by Fateme Mokhles), based on a memorable experience my father had as a young Iranian-American immigrant, was published in summer 2024 by Charlesbridge.

My debut middle grade book, Persian Mythology (illustrated by Reza Dalvand), a collection of myth and legend retellings that introduces readers to the vibrant world of Persian mythology and storytelling, will be published in fall 2025 by Running Press Kids (Hachette).

And I have several other exciting projects in the works, including an unannounced picture book!

In case you’re curious, here’s my educational background:

• University of North Carolina at Greensboro: B.A. in Media Studies

• Lesley University: M.Ed. in Middle School Education

• The Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College: M.A. in English Literature

• Simmons University: Post-Master’s School Library Teacher Certification (K-12)

• Boston College: Graduate Certificate in Theology & Ministry

I’m represented by Jacqui Lipton at the Tobias Literary Agency.