All About Bruce
(a mostly true biographical sketch)
Raised by wolves just outside Los Angeles, Bruce Hale began
his career as a writer while living in Tokyo, and continued it when he moved
to Hawaii in 1983. Before entering the world of children's books, he worked
as a magazine editor, surveyor, corporate lackey, gardener, actor, and deejay.
Bruce has written and illustrated over 20 books for kids. His Underwhere series includes Prince of Underwhere and Pirates of Underwhere. His Chet Gecko Mysteries series includes: The Chameleon Wore Chartreuse, The Big Nap, The Malted Falcon, Hiss Me Deadly, and others.
You could say Bruce has a thing for lizards. He also has created five Hawaii children's books, including Legend of the Laughing Gecko, Moki and the Magic Surfboard, and Moki the Gecko's Best Christmas Ever -- all starring Moki the Gecko. (By the way, Moki the Gecko and Chet are second cousins.)
When not writing and illustrating, Bruce loves to perform. He has appeared
on stage, on television, and in an independent movie called "The Ride," where
he plays a surfer's agent. Bruce is a popular speaker and storyteller for 
audiences of all ages. In 1998, he won a Fulbright Grant to teach storytelling
and study folklore in Thailand. (No, he doesn't speak much Thai, but he
loves Thai food.)
He has taught writing workshops at colleges and universities,
and spoken at national conferences of writing, publishing, and literacy
organizations. On top of that, Bruce has visited elementary schools across
the country, from Hawaii, to Kansas, to Pennsylvania. (You’d never guess
he loves to travel.)
These days, Bruce lives in Santa Barbara with his wife, Janette. When he's not at the computer or drawing board, you'll find him hiking the hills, bicycling, or riding the waves (when it's warm enough, that is). He also likes going to movies and playing jazz music.
One of these days, when it's all right with the lizards, Bruce is going to get a dog. (The one in the photo is Badger, borrowed from a friend.)
Top photo of author by Marissa Roth
Need help writing an author's report? Want to learn more about Bruce? Click HERE for answers to frequently asked questions.
