<p>Working at the intersection of nature, literature, and culture, <b>Mélina Mangal's</b> writing highlights youth whose voices are rarely heard, and the people and places that inspire them to explore their world. Her books from Free Spirit include <i>Jayden's Impossible Garden</i>, <i>Jayden's Secret Ingredient</i>, and the Outside Our Window Board Books series. She is also the author of short stories and biographies for youth, including <i>The Vast Wonder of the World: Biologist Ernest Everett Just</i>. She won the Carter G. Woodson Book Award and was named an NCSS/CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People. Mélina also works as a school library teacher in Minnesota and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, whether it's in her backyard or hiking in the woods.</p><br><p>Ken Daley is an artist and an award-winning illustrator of two picture books, Joseph’s Big Ride and Auntie Luce’s Talking Paintings (Kirkus Review and Américas Award Honorable Mention).</p><p>Ken draws inspiration for his work from his African-Caribbean roots, his life experiences, and the people and cultures he encounters along the way.</p><p>Ken was born in Canada and currently lives in Ontario with his wife and two pets.</p>