Alison Gilligan grew up in New England before moving to New York City for college, work, and life (not necessarily in that order). After graduating from NYU, she worked in an art auction house and advertising agency before relocating to the Pacific Northwest. There she helped combat international piracy for a large software company before leaving to focus on raising a family and serving on nonprofit boards dedicated to promoting literacy and combating homelessness. She currently lives with her family in Florence, Italy where she worships at the shrines of Brunelleschi, Bronzino, and mozzarella di bufala. She continues her volunteer work with a nonprofit dedicated to restoring Florence's art treasures. Ms. Gilligan and her family spend their summers on San Juan Island in Washington state.