R. Conrad Stein was born and grew up in Chicago, Illinois. At age 18, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and served for three years. Later he attended the University of Illinois, where he graduated with a degree in history. He is now a full-time writer of material for young readers and has published more than 100 books. The study of history has always been Mr. Stein's hobby. The author lives in Chicago with his wife (children's book author Deborah Kent) and their daughter, Janna.
