Judith Clarke writes incisive fictional novels for teens that have earned praise for their humor and deft handling of weighty issues. This former teacher and librarian, who is a parent herself, enjoyed her first taste of success as an author with The Heroic Life of Al Capsella, a 1988 novel set in Clarke's native Australia. Two other novels featuring the likable teen followed, and in these and subsequent young-adult titles that deal with more serious topics or crises, the universal appeal of Clarke's protagonists and their dilemmas have prompted reviewers to note that the books should undoubtedly resonate with a global readership as well. After the success of Clarke's debut as a writer--The Heroic Life earned a finalist's spot in a government-sponsored literature competition in Australia--nearly all of her books have been published in the United States by Holt.

Clarke was born in Sydney in 1943 and earned an...