Michael Stern grew up in New Haven and spent years exploring the streets bordering Yale University, fascinated by the oddly whimsical and enigmatic stone carvings adorning the Gothic buildings. His deep passion for local history and architectural mysteries led him to meticulously research, document, and photograph these unique hand-chiseled treasures. As an author and local guide, Michael has dedicated himself to uncovering the rich history, European craftsmanship, and fascinating backstories behind the carvings, sharing their hidden meanings through his writing and popular guided walking tours of the historic campus.