Michael Russell was inspired by an exuberant mentor in high school to pursue writing and teaching as a dual career, but uninspiring university classes were interrupted by a higher calling. His passion for innovative physical endeavors led to his winning three world cups in ballet skiing and the creation of SnowDance-a first-of-its-kind theatrical dance company on skis-and inspirited a life-long dedication to achieving excellence in every quest. He has been a business manager, photographer, U.S. Freestyle Ski Team captain, stage actor, musician, logger, bartender, mechanic, motorcoach operator, teacher, builder, and uncompromising advocate for individual rights. He wrote HONOR STUDENT in 1989 and this revised edition 30 years later, and ONCE UPON A TIME ON A BICYCLE-an illustrated third-person autobiography about a solo bicycle expedition across the American southwest into Central America-in 2018. He is currently completing WINTERDANSE: THE MISPLACED ART OF SNOW BALLET for 2021. He resides off-grid in a secluded mountain range with his wife, German shepherds, and wild-animal neighbors.