I write books and stories for children and some for adults. I've written biographies on diverse people, such as track and field legend Jesse Owens, detective Allan Pinkerton, poet Nikki Giovanni, musician Louis Armstrong, composer Ludwig van Beethoven, labor activist Mother Jones, and freedom fighter Nelson Mandela. One of the things I love about writing biographies is the chance to shine a spotlight on fascinating people. Sometimes they are more interesting than anyone I could invent. Especially interesting to me are those who overcome challenges and provide positive role models for children. In my books on childhood history (the Our America series), I explored what children were doing during various eras in history--using children's diaries, memoirs, photographs, songs, games, and more. I have also written nonfiction picture books, and as a co-author with Edith Fine, two humorous grammar guides and a picture book nominated for the 2009-2010 California Young Reader medal, Armando and the Blue Tarp School. When I am not scrutinizing words, I enjoy writing poetry, playing my violin, reading, swimming, snorkeling, walking, and spending time with my family. For more about me, visit www.judithjosephson.com, www.grammarpatrol.com, and www.bluetarpschool.com.