Tina Athaide of Asian Indian descent, was born in Uganda, Africa. She is a reading resource specialist, and in 1997 was recognized by the International Reading Association for her outstanding contribution in the field of reading. Tina is the author of Pran’s Week of Adventure, At the Firehouse with Dad, Yum, Apples! and Flora’s Box, all published by Bebop Books. When not writing, Tina enjoys gardening, playing the piano, and practicing yoga. She lives in Temecula, California, with her husband and their beagle, Casper. Vist her online at tinaathaide.com.

Maria Victoria Torrey of Puerto Rican descent, was born in New York City. She has a master’s degree and is working toward her doctorate, both in bilingual education. Vicky is also a Reading Recovery® teacher. She loves to photograph people, especially children, and she has written and photographed several beginning reader stories. Vicky lives in Florida with her husband and their three daughters.