Kate Ristau is an author and folklorist who writes young adult and middle grade fiction, like Clockbreakers, Mythwakers, and Shadowgirl. Her essays are available at the Washington Post and the New York Times. In her ideal world, magic and myth combine to create memorable stories with unforgettable characters. Until she finds that world, she'll live in a house in Oregon where she found a sword behind the water heater and fairies in the backyard. You can find her online at Kateristau.com or follow her on Twitter @kateristau and Facebook @ristawesome.