The Early Life of Patricia Polacco

Patricia Polacco, the youngest writer on our teacher recommended list and still living, has captured the hearts of many with her moving stories. Born in Michigan, Patricia faced significant challenges from an early age. After her parents divorced, she lived with her maternal grandmother. Struggling with reading made school life particularly difficult for her, and this led her to question her own abilities. She once remarked, ‘I think inside I knew I wasn’t dumb or slow. But it hurt me. I felt like I was living in a world that believed that I was dumb.’

The Turning Point: Mr. Falker

Patricia’s life took a transformative turn when a schoolteacher, George Falker, recognized her inability to read and extended a helping hand. One day, he invited her to wash the blackboard after school and asked her to form letters and numbers on the board with a wet sponge. As she struggled, he gently revealed her secret, telling her, ‘Patricia, you fooled us all the way to your 14th year, and you’re not dumb. I have a friend that can help you.’ This experience formed the basis of her most famous book, Thank You, Mr. Falker, which vividly captures her early childhood struggles and the profound impact of a compassionate teacher.

A Late Bloomer Turned Renowned Author

Patricia Polacco didn’t publish her first book until she was 41, yet she has become one of the most beloved children’s authors and illustrators of her time. She is now the proud creator of numerous acclaimed books, including The Keeping Quilt, Babushka’s Doll, Chicken Sunday, and of course, Thank You, Mr. Falker. Patricia also holds a Ph.D. in art history, further showcasing her incredible journey from struggling student to celebrated author. Her famous quotes such as, ‘You change people by the way you treat them. That is what changes the human heart,’ reflect her belief in the transformative power of kindness and understanding, especially in the realm of education.