Born 1953, in St. Paul, MN; Education: University of Minnesota, B.A. (in psychology); studied art at American Academy (Chicago, IL), Atelier Lack (Minneapolis, MN), and Otis Parson's School of Design. Hobbies and other interests: Flying kites, walks on the beach, chess.

International Sociological Association, American Sociological Society.

Most Promising New Author mention, Publishers Weekly Cuffies Awards, 1991, for Ruby the Copycat; Notable Children's Book, American Library Association, 1994, for Good Night, Gorilla; Chicago Public Library, Best Books of the Year list, 1995, School Library Journal's Best Books of 1995 list, and Caldecott Medal, 1996, all for Offıcer Buckle and Gloria.