Laurel Nakanishi is a writer, educator, and author of the book of poetry, Ashore. She was born and raised in Kapālama on the island of O‘ahu, Hawai‘i. She holds degrees from the University of Montana and Florida International University, and has been fortunate to receive fellowships from the Fulbright Foundation and Japan-US Friendship Commission. She teaches creative writing to young people in Hawai‘i public schools.