Elizabeth Verdick is a childrens book writer and editor. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and their two children. Marieka Heinlen launched her career as a childrens book illustrator with the award-winning Hands Are Not for Hitting. As a freelance illustrator and designer, Marieka focuses her work on books and other materials for children, teens, parents, and teachers. She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, with her husband and son.