Some lessons are learned in classrooms. Others are learned in quiet moments—kneading dough, sharing stories, and listening to the wisdom of those who have lived before us. 9 Ways to Learn to Cook, Rick takes you on a journey through childhood memories, unexpected mentors, and the countless ways life shapes us. From the rich aromas of Charlie Taylor’s kitchen to the trials and triumphs of finding one’s voice as a writer, these stories explore resilience, growth, and the beauty of ordinary moments. Part memoir, part reflection, and wholly heartfelt, this anthology offers a collection of life’s essential love, failure, discovery, and the quiet wisdom that comes with time. Take a seat, turn the page, and savor the stories that make a life well-lived.
Rick Allen is a writer, photographer, AAUS scientific diver, and PADI Divemaster. He’s collected data for oceanographic researchers, fed sharks by hand, and loves seeing bioluminescence when scuba diving at night. What really drives him, though, is sharing those adventures with young people. There's nothing like seeing a child's eyes light up when they encounter something wonderful for the first time.
Exploring the forests and lakes of Southwest Michigan as a young boy nurtured Rick's love of ecology. He now lives in Southern California with his wife, daughter, and orange tabby cat. He enjoys telling stories that promote outdoor play and self-learning. The heroines in his books are designed around creating strong female adventurers for his daughter to look up to.