Tom Chapin narrates and writes original music for each read-along audiocassette and videocassette in the Benefactory's collection of true stories, produced under license with The Humane Society of The United States. In addition, he introduces each online storytellings featured on ReadPlay. Tom is a gifted entertainer who charms audiences of all ages. Anyone who has seen him perform knows what Billboard Magazine means when they say he is "one of those natural-born entertainers who, with nothing more than guitar in hand, can totally captivate."

Tom has gained widespread critical and popular acclaim for his recordings on the Sony Wonder label, aimed at 4 to 11 year-olds and their families. Tom and his collaborators John Forster, Michael Mark and Jon Cobert have created a body of songs which are quickly becoming children's classics. His newest project is This Pretty Planet, a collection of environmental songs for the new millennium, released on Earth Day in April, 2000.

Tom's adult concerts and recordings are sparked by strong, intelligent song writing with clear, engaging vocals and the intricate, melodic guitar work that has become his trademark. He has recorded six albums of adult-oriented material, and a new adult recording is in the works, to include hit song My Electronic Vacation, which debuted on NPR.

Tom's unique ability to touch audiences isn't limited to his music, however. Between 1971 and 1976 he brought innovative and challenging television to a national audience as the host of ABC-TV's Peabody and Emmy Award-winning children's show, Make A Wish. More recently, Tom hosted National Geographic's Explorer series on TBS.

In addition, Tom works tirelessly on behalf of many charitable organizations. He has joined Save The Children in their mission to make lasting positive changes in the lives of disadvantaged children in the U.S. and around the world. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of WHY (World Hunger Year), the New York based hunger organization that was founded in 1975 by Tom's late brother, singer/songwriter and humanitarian Harry Chapin.