There is almost no genre that Donna Jo Napoli has not tried. Born on February 28th, she has written novels, picture books, tales about mathematics and science.

Recent titles include Daughter of Venice (2002), King of Mulberry Street (2005) and Ugly (2006).

"I love writing," she says, "but maybe the best part for me is the research. If I am going to write about some time or place or society that I am not a part of, I have to do research. Lots of it. Until I am totally seeped in it and I get carried away." She is also an avid reader and believes that is an important tool for a writer to use. "As a child I loved fairy tales ... biographies ... nature. By reading I could go anywhere and be anyone. I loved that freedom."

Ms. Napoli is a world renowned linguist, holding three degrees from Harvard University.