The Princess in Black and the Trick-or-Treating Trouble

Shannon Hale is a writer whose words transport readers to vivid, enchanting worlds where adventure and heart are woven together in every page. Best known for her Princess Academy series and The Goose Girl—both of which have captured the imaginations of readers young and old—Shannon crafts stories that feel timeless, with a focus on strong heroines, intricate relationships, and the subtle magic of human experience.

Born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, Shannon's love for storytelling began early. She always knew she wanted to be a writer, drawing inspiration from her love of fairy tales, fantasy, and the idea of characters finding their courage in unexpected places. Whether it's through princesses who must fight their own battles or ordinary girls who discover their extraordinary destinies, Shannon's books are filled with strong-willed characters and rich worlds that resonate with readers, especially young women, seeking their own strength and voice.

Shannon's impact on the world of young adult literature is undeniable. The Princess Academy, which won numerous accolades, including a Newbery Honor, continues to be a beloved classic. Her Books of Bayern series, which includes The Goose Girl and its sequels, showcases her deep understanding of both fantasy tropes and the complexities of human emotions. Through her work, she invites readers into stories where bravery and kindness are the true keys to triumph.

Beyond her writing, Shannon is a passionate advocate for the importance of diverse stories, especially in children's and young adult literature. She believes in the power of stories to build empathy and understanding, creating connections across cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. This is why her books often touch on themes of friendship, identity, and the courage to stand up for what is right.

When Shannon isn't writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the beauty of nature, and watching her children grow into the adventurous, thoughtful individuals she always hoped they’d be. Her journey as an author is one of passion, perseverance, and a love for the stories that connect us all, making her one of the most influential voices in contemporary children's fantasy.

Dean Hale is a storyteller whose voice brings a fresh, playful spark to the world of children's literature. Known for his vibrant, heartwarming tales, Dean has a knack for weaving adventure, humor, and meaningful lessons into every page. Often teaming up with his wife, Shannon Hale, Dean’s creative partnership has produced beloved books that capture the hearts of readers and families alike.

A native of Salt Lake City, Utah, Dean’s journey into writing came from his own love of storytelling. His background in theater and his playful, imaginative nature shine through in his books, where the characters are often larger-than-life yet grounded in real human emotions. Whether he’s telling tales of magical creatures, historical figures, or quirky everyday moments, Dean’s writing is always imbued with a sense of joy and discovery.

While Dean’s work is often in collaboration with Shannon Hale, he’s also known for his solo endeavors, such as The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl comics and The Princess in Black series. These stories stand out for their quick-paced plots, humorous undertones, and relatable characters, offering young readers both entertainment and inspiration. Dean’s ability to blend action with heart ensures his books aren’t just fun to read—they’re ones that leave a lasting impression.

When not writing, Dean enjoys the simple pleasures of family life, playing games, and exploring new creative avenues. His passion for encouraging young readers and inspiring their imaginations runs deep, making him a key figure in modern children's literature. Through his books, Dean continues to show kids that adventure isn’t just found in faraway places; it’s in the everyday moments, too.