Wendelin Van Draanen is a prolific American writer known for her engaging children's and young-adult fiction. She has written more than thirty novels for young readers and teens. Her most notable works include the 18-book Edgar-winning Sammy Keyes series. Additionally, she authored Flipped, which was named a Top 100 Children’s Novel for the 21st Century by SLJ and was adapted into a Warner Brothers feature film directed by Rob Reiner.

The Running Dream, another of Van Draanen's celebrated novels, won the ALA’s Schneider Family Award for its portrayal of the disability experience. Her latest work, Hope in the Mail, is part memoir and part writing guide, aimed at inspiring aspiring writers to pursue their dreams.

Van Draanen has also written two short chapter-book series: the Gecko & Sticky books, which are entertaining reads perfect for reluctant readers, and the Shredderman books.