AUTHOR BIO
Devil in the Dunes is Wendy Byard’s newly released, page-turning suspense novel, already installed in the prestigious Library of Michigan.
A newspaper columnist and former journalist and marketing pro, Wendy Byard brings decades of insight into human nature and a knack for a compelling story to her fictional work. From the bustle of Chicago advertising to the vibrant classrooms of Michigan, Wendy Byard's career journey has always been guided by a singular mission: to make a bigger impact.
After two decades of teaching English and publishing a book for educators (Teach and Reach for Classroom Miracles), she has taken the lead in her own narrative, channeling a lifelong love of storytelling into a page-turning crime novel. The result, Devil in the Dunes, is a suspenseful thriller with deep themes and rich characters set on the dazzling, but sometimes deadly, West Michigan coast.
A dedicated public servant and community leader, Byard now thrives by connecting with the community through her writing, proving that a lifelong desire to write and teach can become a powerful new story all its own.
Byard earned her bachelor and master of art degrees from Michigan State University and studied overseas in London as part of MSU's Journalism Program. She resides in Michigan.
AUTHOR OF TEACH AND REACH FOR CLASSROOM MIRACLES & A DEVIL IN THE DUNES
I am the author of two very different books! One is for educators to encourage them to implement intentionally caring practices into their classrooms. The second is a crime thriller set in West Michigan!
Teach and Reach for Classroom Miracles and A Devil in the Dunes.
COLLEGE WRITING INSTRUCTOR
For 20 years, I taught English Composition 1 and 2 to students who added to my heart in immeasurable ways. As I sought to love them, we all experienced the power of relationship.
BUSINESS OWNER & GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Once I retired from Mott College, I opened my marketing and graphic design business Wordgirl Marketing. I love helping clients realize their dreams. I create websites, logos, business cards, brochures, and more and provide photography, writing, proofreading, and research. I also share my marketing and advertising knowledge gleaned from working at Group 243 Advertising in Ann Arbor and Grey Chicago.
SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEE & COMMUNITY ACTIVIST
Serving as a school board trustee for seven years and chairing the district's teaching and learning committee grew me as an educator. I'm also a member of and Marketing Director for the Women's Fund and a member of the Lapeer County Democratic Party Communication Committee.
PUBLIC SPEAKER
From appearing on a local radio show to high school graduation speeches to talks at Saginaw Valley State University, the Genesee County Teachers as Writers Association, the
annual Children's Mental Health Symposium, and the annual Genesee County Counselors' Association, among others, public speaking has enriched and clarified my views. Go to 29:30 at Find Out More below.
WRITER: ON THE TOWN MAGAZINE
I was a staff writer for On The Town Magazine in Genesee County, MI. I've written about human trafficking, a breast cancer warrior and cancer camp for children, an urban farm for at-risk youth, and many other subjects. These experiences have added insight to my educational views and practice.
Michigan State
From Michigan State University, I earned a Master's Degree in Critical Issues in the Teaching of English, a Bachelor's in journalism and history, and a 9-12th grade Teaching Certificate Also while at MSU, I wrote for The State News. "On the banks of the Red Cedar, there's a school that's known to all . . . ."