Ben Mikaelsen

Ben Mikaelsen is an award-winning author known for his powerful young adult novels that explore themes of redemption, resilience, and the healing power of nature. Born in Bolivia, he moved to the United States as a teenager. His most celebrated work, "Touching Spirit Bear," draws on Native American traditions and restorative justice principles. Mikaelsen's other notable books include "Petey," based on a true story about a boy with cerebral palsy, and "Ghost of Spirit Bear." A passionate advocate for at-risk youth, Mikaelsen lives in Montana where he shares his home with a 750-pound black bear named Buffy.