David Shannon is an American writer and illustrator, renowned for his contributions to children's literature. Born on October 5, 1959, in Washington, D.C., Shannon spent his formative years in Spokane, Washington.

He pursued his passion for art at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, where he earned a fine arts degree. Post-graduation, he relocated to New York City, where his editorial illustrations featured in prestigious publications like The New York Times, Time, and Rolling Stone. His artwork also graced numerous book jackets.

Shannon's most celebrated work, No, David!, earned him a Caldecott Honor in 1998. Among his other popular works are A Bad Case of Stripes, How Georgie Radbourn Saved Baseball, and The Amazing Christmas Extravaganza. Additionally, he illustrated The Bunyans by Audrey Wood, The Rough Face Girl by Rafe Martin, various books by Jane Yolen, including The Ballad of the Pirate Queens and Encounter, as well as Melinda Long's How I Became a Pirate and Pirates Don't Change Diapers.

A passionate baseball fan and softball player, David Shannon currently resides in Los Angeles with his wife.