Stephen Kuusisto is a poet, memoirist and essayist. Born in Exeter, New Hampshire, Kuusisto has been blind since birth, developing a gifted ear for rhythm, pace and sound. He attended Hobart College where he earned a BA and the University of Iowa, where he earned an MFA. He is the author of two collections of poetry and two memoirs, including the best-selling "Planet of the Blind" (1998). He teaches at the University of Iowa, where he holds dual appointments in the Writers' Workshop and the College of Medicine. His poetry and essays have appeared in "The New York Times Magazine, Harper's, Seneca Review, Partisan Review, " and "Poetry." He has been featured on National Public Radio, "Dateline NBC, " and "The Oprah Winfrey Show." He lives in Iowa City, Iowa.