Mary Karpin

Enjoying a second career as an author of both fiction and non-fiction, Mary Karpin has recently published a fast-paced novel entitled Past is Prologue, a story of murder, mystery and mayhem in the 1920s. When asked what drove her to create a story set in the roaring 20s, Ms. Karpin, replied, “I am fascinated by the way people in society related to one another. Their manners, while outwardly polite, actually hid all sorts of secrets. Their homes were staffed, their relationships followed strict rules, and their dress was equally restricting. Setting a mystery in this period enabled me to present a complex puzzle of elements for my characters to react to.” Her debut nonfiction book: The Constitution of the United States of America: Clear and Simple, introduces readers to the essence of this historic document, using her skills as a former educator to rephrase its passages for clearer understanding. Previously, Ms. Karpin published To Thine Own Self, a novel inspired by her insider’s look at what it means to be a teacher in the New York City school system. Mary Karpin’s previous career was as an education specialist for the New York City Department of Education. Her focus was on working with children with special needs, specifically the deaf and language impaired. Her outstanding dedication to her students and managing of programs, earned her listing in Who’s Who of America’s Teachers and an invitation to participate in the People to People Ambassador Program to China. In 2005, she was interviewed by CNN regarding the challenges and rewards of teaching in the New York City Department of Education.