Dr. Patricia J. Cianciolo
Dr. Patricia J. Cianciolo was an internationally recognized expert in children’s and adolescent literature who read, reviewed, collected and championed thousands of books in her lifetime through both her personal and professional pursuits.
After earning her bachelor of philosophy degree in biology and elementary education from Stritch in 1949, Pat went on to pursue her master’s degree in childhood development and education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and her Ph.D. in curriculum and K-12 education from Ohio State University. She worked in elementary and higher education for 47 years, traveled to 17 nations, and served on numerous professional committees.
Pat’s books include multiple editions of - “Picture Books for Children” and “Illustrations in Children’s Books” . These are standards in the field, according to a citation of the International Reading Association in honoring her in 1995 with the Arbuthnot Award, which recognizes outstanding higher education instructors of children’s and young adult literature. In addition, Pat also has published more than 60 book chapters and journal articles as well as several studies on the use of children’s literature in elementary schools.
Aside from her work in education and literature, Pat served as a consultant for PBS television and as a volunteer reader for a Michigan public radio sub-station for blind and homebound children and adults. Pat passed away on January 18, 2012.