Patricia Polacco

Patricia Polacco grew up hearing family stories from her Ukrainian grandmother. In the absence of a television set, Polacco's "Babushka" told gripping tales in front of the crackling fireplace. In keeping with oral tradition, Polacco retold these stories to her own children. It wasn't until Polacco was 41 that she started to write down this family history and illustrate it.

Patricia Polacco is now the author and illustrator of many charming picture books. Not surprisingly, her stories often involve meaningful interactions between young and old people as well as an intermingling of different cultures. She has written and illustrated Thunder Cake, The Keeping Quilt, Chicken Sunday, and many other favorites.

Website: http://www.patriciapolacco.com/