Susan Van Dusen Delves Into Skokie's Past

Susan Van Dusen has written her third Skokie history book, "The Great Fire of 1910."  Written for both children and adults, it details a fire that took place during one of Skokie's Market Days in the distant past.  Van Dusen is committed not only to bringing Skokie's history alive, but in unifying the village.  "We have different backgrounds, but we're united by where we live.  We have something we all share in common and that's living in Skokie."   Her books are part of the the school curriculum.   

Ms. Dusen's background is varied; she taught in Chicago's inner city schools, lived in Jerusalem, worked as the editorial director of WBBM radio, and has pursued many other educational projects.  She also is the wife of Mayor George Van Dusen. 

Two more books are planned in the historical series.  The books are available at the Skokie Public Library and the Skokie Heritage Museum

Courtesy of the Skokie Review, January 17, 2008.