Jacqueline Kelly is a New Zealand-born American writer, whose works have captured the hearts of both children and adults alike. Her most notable work is The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate, for which she received a Newbery Honor.

Jacqueline was born in New Zealand and moved to western Canada at an early age. Growing up amidst the dense rainforests of Vancouver Island, she later experienced a drastic change when her family relocated to the desert of El Paso, Texas.

She pursued higher education in El Paso and attended medical school in Galveston. After practicing medicine for several years, Jacqueline attended the University of Texas School of Law and practiced law for some time. However, her passion for storytelling led her to pursue a career in writing. Her literary journey began with her first published short story in the Mississippi Review in 2001, marking one of her proudest achievements.

Jacqueline Kelly's writing stands as a bridge between her diverse experiences and imaginative storytelling, resonating with readers across different age groups.