Nancy Loewen grew up on a farm in southwestern Minnesota, surrounded by library books and cats. She’s published more than 140 books for children and young adults. The LAST Day of Kindergarten and Four to the Pole (co-authored with polar explorer Ann Bancroft) were Minnesota Book Award finalists. Her Writer’s Toolbox series received a Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers. Nancy has also received awards from The American Library Association, the New York Public Library, and the Society of School Librarians International. Nancy lives in St. Paul and has an MFA in Creative Writing from Hamline University. She likes to read, cook, take long walks, and photograph oddities from thrift stores. Please visit her website at nancyloewen.net. Mari is a children's book illustrator and Toy designer and her inner child couldn't be happier with her life choices! She was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and lives in California, with her husband, daughter, and two dogs! she loves all animals and would pet a crocodile if it didn't bite her!
