James Freeman has used his remarkable gifts for writing and teaching during a 36-year career that includes publishing 18 books of fiction and poetry, along with authoring several textbooks. In 2006, he earned the prestigious Philadelphia Inquirer Editor’s Choice Award for his book, Ishi’s Journey from the Center to the Edge of the World, a work of historical fiction chronicling the life of Ishi, believed to have been the last living Yahi Indian.

In November 2013, Freeman published a book of poems titled Temporary Roses Dipped In Gold. Collaborating with Thomas Gage, HSU professor emeritus in English, he followed up that effort with the recently completed The Hyskos History of Biblical History, a book focused on debunking biblical myths and confirming ancient truths.

Freeman’s time at HSU, he says, provided the ideal foundation for his career, offering a “practical bridge from academic learning and learning how to learn for a lifetime, to a sustainable career of meaningful life’s work.”

An instructor at Bucks County Community College in Newton, Pa., since 1982, Freeman has taught classes ranging from children’s literature to brain physiology. He began his career in education as a lecturer at HSU, teaching English and serving as an instructor in the Upward Bound program from 1978 to 1981. He also taught at Southern Oregon University and Shasta College before taking the position at BCCC.

Along with his teaching responsibilities, Freeman also participates in a variety of conferences and workshops, including the Silomar California Teachers of English annual seminar, the Philadelphia Writing Conference and the Two Year College Northeast Region annual conference.

Freeman earned his Master of Arts in English from Humboldt State in 1980, with an emphasis on preparing college and high school teachers of writing.