Arthur Cola was born in Chicago in the “little Italy” neighborhood of Taylor St. on the near west side of the city. His family moved to Oak Park, IL where he attended Oak Park-River Forest High School. While attending Loyola University, Chicago, he met his future wife, Donna Shields. Together they have five now grown children and seven grandchildren. He, his wife and family now live in Wisconsin.

He received his Education degree from Loyola University, Chicago. He retired after 35 years as a Teacher of History and a School Principal. Upon receiving his Master’s Degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, he also served as a Lecturer for Barry University in Florida. His post graduate work concentrated on Educational administration and theology. He studied in Rome at the Loyola University Campus while conducting research for two of his novels, “The Stone Cutter Genius” and “The Brooch” and traveled extensively in Ireland and Britain researching cultural sites for his previous books and new series: The Doonagore Theft Trilogy.” His novel, “Stolen Christmas” is a magical tale of St. Nicholas coming to help a boy who is trying to save Our Lady of Pompeii Church in Chicago. He has recently created a theatrical version of it. His work is available on Amzon.com/arthurcola and on Kindle.