Hi! My name is Andrea Dean, and I live and write in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills of Northern California.  I have been many places in my life, but this is my home. I live in the house where my parents raised me, and I feel rooted to this place and community. 

I became a StoryWay Guide because I love to read the true stories of others, and I have loved writing my own. The intentional sharing of your life in story is a gift that changes both the writer and the reader. In a time when we often feel disconnected and alone, I can think of few things more important than this.

My favorite story moment came during an afternoon spent over a pot of tea with my father. I had planned to ask him about the time period he and I lived in Pakistan to get his perspective for the book I was writing, but our conversation turned to stories from my father’s childhood and college years. He started by telling me the milestones from those school days, but quickly turned to smaller things, memories that surprised him as they surfaced. There were conversations with his parents when he stayed out too late, stories of how he tormented his younger brother, and memories of girls he dated in college. These small things gave me new insight into how he became the man he is now. I am eternally grateful for that afternoon and the gift he gave me in those few hours.

When I am not writing and working, I enjoy the trails and rivers of my hometown. I have three grown children and one grandson, nearly two years old. I love puzzles, books, music and theater. In free time I play my piano, take walks, or sit outside and watch for the family of foxes that live in a den at the bottom of my property.

Our stories inspire and connect us with others. I would be honored to help you share yours, whether it is the story of your family, your business, or a single season of your life.