Maryann Macdonald grew up in a family of eight sisters and brothers. Having lived in close quarters with so many kids probably helps me understand children better, she says. As a child, Macdonald enjoyed reading Mary Poppins and The Secret Garden, along with other classics. Years later, Macdonald's pleasure of sharing books with her daughter inspired her to write her own stories. She has now written more than 20 books for children, including picture books, chapter books, easy readers, and a biography.