Joan Bauer is an acclaimed American novelist, born on July 12, 1951 in River Forest, Illinois. Known for her humorous and heartwarming young adult novels, Bauer often weaves themes of resilience and personal growth into her stories. Her unique blend of comedy and insight has captivated audiences worldwide.

Bauer grew up in the 1950s with a deep fascination for humor. She admired people who could induce laughter and always believed in the power of comic entrances. Despite her peers planning careers in medicine and law, Bauer nurtured a dream of making her mark through comedy and storytelling.