Cynthia Voight, a contemporary American children's literature writer, was born in Boston in 1942. In her girlhood, she also attended a women's college like the protagonist of this book, Joan. She aspired to become a writer when she was in high school, and believes that "it is fascinating fun to think of a story and then write it well, and it feels wonderful. But you have to be diligent in writing, so that the story will come true. Hard work is the key The root of the story is the only thing that counts." Her works have won many important children's book awards, including the Newbery Medal. She also won the National English Medal for her outstanding contributions to young people's literature. Teachers Association Youth Literature Award, and Margaret Edward Lifetime Achievement Award.