Shel Silverstein, born Sheldon Allan Silverstein, was a remarkable American writer, cartoonist, songwriter, and musician. He was born on September 25, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois. Silverstein briefly attended university before being drafted into the United States Army. During the 1950s, his illustrations were published in various newspapers and magazines, including the adult-oriented Playboy. His satirical, adult-oriented alphabet book, Uncle Shelby's ABZ Book, gained attention during that period.

As a children's author, Silverstein is acclaimed for his works such as The Giving Tree, Where the Sidewalk Ends, and A Light in the Attic. His books have been translated into more than 47 languages and have sold over 20 million copies. As a songwriter, he wrote the famous 1969 Johnny Cash track "A Boy Named Sue". His songs were recorded by various artists, including Tompall Glaser, The Irish Rovers, and Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show.

Silverstein's last book published before his death in 1999 was Falling Up. His legacy continued with works like Runny Babbit and Every Thing On It, which were released posthumously. Shel Silverstein passed away from a heart attack on May 10, 1999, at his home in Key West, Florida, at the age of 68.