Andrew Elborn Clements was a renowned American author of children's literature, born on May 29, 1949, in Camden, New Jersey, and passed away on November 28, 2019. He grew up in Oaklyn and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, before moving to Springfield, Illinois. His parents were avid readers, which nurtured his love for books and reading, a passion he carried throughout his life.

Clements attended Northwestern University, where he was encouraged by his professors for his writing skills. After graduation, he pursued a Masters of Arts in Teaching at National Louis University and taught in public schools in Chicago for seven years. He also spent some time in the music industry, attempting a career as a singer-songwriter, which later contributed to his work as a writer.

His first novel, Frindle, published in 1996, became a major success and earned him the Phoenix Award in 2016. Clements authored numerous beloved children's books, earning various accolades and a loyal readership.

Andrew Clements lived with his family in Maine, close to where he spent many of his early summers, and continued to write prolifically until his passing. His works continue to inspire and entertain young readers worldwide.