Nancy Pearl

Nancy Pearl is a librarian, author, literary critic, speaker, and former executive director of the Washington Center for the Book at the Seattle Public Library. Pearl earned a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Michigan and an MA in history from Oklahoma State University. She has worked in public library systems in Detroit, Tulsa, and Seattle.

Pearl became known in Seattle for her regular appearances on public radio, where she recommended books and shared her expertise in literature and reading. She gained national recognition with her book "Book Lust," a guide to recommended reading, followed by "More Book Lust," "Book Crush," and "Book Lust to Go." Pearl is also known for her "Rule of 50," which encourages readers to move on from a book if it does not engage them after 50 pages. Her fiction debut, "George and Lizzie," explores the complexities of marriage and relationships.

Pearl created the community reading program "If All Seattle Read the Same Book," now known as Seattle Reads, which has been adopted in cities across the United States and internationally. She was also the inspiration for the Archie McPhee Librarian Action Figure. Pearl hosts a monthly television show on The Seattle Channel, interviewing writers from around the country.

Her honors include the Woman's National Book Association Award, Librarian of the Year Award from Library Journal, Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association, and the Literarian Award for Outstanding Service to the American Literary Community from the National Book Foundation. Pearl speaks about reading and literacy at library conferences, literacy organizations, and community groups worldwide, and provides book commentary on public radio stations including KUOW FM in Seattle, KWGS in Tulsa, and Wisconsin Public Radio. Pearl's career reflects a commitment to public service, authorship, and literary advocacy in the world of books and reading.