Behind the Blog

Brad’s Reader began as a small blog in December 2006 as a platform to discuss literature, writing, and how evolving technology is affecting the publishing industry. Then, as a result of unexpected growth and the need for a more flexible platform, the blog moved from Blogger to using Typepad in March 2007. This allowed Brad’s Reader to move away from the generic “cookie cutter” blog look and instead, use a fresh customized design.

Now that the formalities are out of the way, I can tell you a little about myself. In a past life I spent time in the U.S. Navy as an electrician, stationed on the USS Peleliu out of San Diego, California. I traveled around the world (mostly the Middle East) and electrocuted myself more times than I care to remember. Even while in the Navy, I spent large amounts of time reading and writing, activities I had enjoyed since before high school.

My wife and I moved back to the Chicago area in 2003 and I began going to college. It was at college where I really got into literature and writing. Within my first year I decided to major in English Literature. By my second year I added a minor in philosophy. I graduated in May 2007 with my Bachelor degree and spent many, many months looking for a job and pursuing a career as a freelance writer.

I still reside in the Chicago area with my beautiful wife Susan, our son Mason, and our cat Kirby.