Reaching for the Stars

About the Book

Separating from her husband in 1965 with four children and few skills, author Katherine Todd began a journey that turned disadvantage into opportunities. In Reaching for the Stars, she shares her story of how at nearly thirty years old she began a new reality.

This memoir narrates the steps she took to create stability for her and her children. Her first job helped integrate her life and her family’s needs with the world of work. She moved to her home state of California in 1968 to provide closer contact to family for her children. Todd continued her education while working, graduating with a bachelor of science degree from the University of San Francisco in 1983, thirty years after high school graduation. Her children all grew up to be productive and responsible adults.

Reaching for the Stars tells how Todd forged ahead of her time in business, entering fields usually not open to women. Her achievements opened doors that ultimately worked for women and minorities. Todd shares how she followed her father’s advice: “Never limit yourself, Punky. Always reach for the stars, and you will land on the moon.”

About the Author

Katherine Todd earned a bachelor’s degree from University of San Francisco and film training from UCLA’s Motion Picture and TV Production Program. Her short film “The Celebration” won multiple awards. Todd was president of Burnt Meringue, an independent film company, and she has written five screenplays and several short stories.