Donna Jo Napoli has never forgotten the refuge from difficult situations that she found in the world of language--it's a thrill she tries to convey to her young adult and middle-school readers, as well to as those who only know her as an accomplished linguistics professor. Whether she's writing historical fiction, spinning new versions of fairy tales, or detailing the complications of life on the brink of adulthood, Napoli brings humor and great respect for language to every book. In an essay in the Junior Library Guild, Napoli wrote: "When I write, I say the words out loud. All my books are meant to be read aloud. I try to talk to my reader. I want my books to be my readers' friends--just as books were my friends in my childhood and remain so today."

Born in Miami, Florida, Napoli was the youngest of four in a family...