Margaret Hillert has written over 80 books for children who are just learning to read. Her books have been translated into many languages and have helped children throughout the world learn to read. She first started writing poetry as a child and has continued to write for children and adults throughout her life. As a first grade teacher, Margaret realized that the books available for students just learning to read were beyond their comprehension. She then began to write her easy readers and poetry for children. Her first collection of poetry Father Than Far was published in 1969. Her many awards include the Chicago Children's Reading Round Table Annual Award for outstanding contributions to the field of children's literature. Other honors include the David W. Longe Prize and the Michigan Bookwoman of the Year Award. A teacher for 34 years, she is now retired and lives in Michigan where she continues to write stories and poetry.

Hans Christian Andersen was a Danish fairy tale writer and poet who is most noted for his Fairy Tales, including the enduring children s stories The Snow Queen, The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina, and The Ugy Duckling. Through his youth Andersen worked as a weaver s apprentice and actor before turning to writing. Andersen s works have been translated into more than 150 languages and have inspired countless films, plays, and ballets. Although Andersen died in 1875, the anniversary of his birthday (June 2) continues to celebrated each year as International Children s Book Day.

Hans Christian Andersen was a Danish fairy tale writer and poet who is most noted for his Fairy Tales, including the enduring children s stories The Snow Queen, The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina, and The Ugy Duckling. Through his youth Andersen worked as a weaver s apprentice and actor before turning to writing. Andersen s works have been translated into more than 150 languages and have inspired countless films, plays, and ballets. Although Andersen died in 1875, the anniversary of his birthday (June 2) continues to celebrated each year as International Children s Book Day.