Isabel Alçada has a degree in Philosophy from the University of Lisbon, a master's degree in Sociology of Education from the University of Boston, and a PhD in Education and Literacy from the Nova University of Lisbon. In 1976, she began her teaching career and, in 1982, she became a writer of children's books with the inauguration of Uma Aventura collection, in partnership with Ana Maria Magalhães. She coordinated the work group that designed network for school libraries and was a commissioner for the National Reading Plan. From 2009 to 2011, she served as Minister of Education. Currently, she is the Advisor in education matters to the President of the Portuguese Republic.