Gloria Jean Pinkney

Gloria Pinkney was born in Lumberton North Carolina where she set her first book Back Home. While attending high school in Philadelphia she met her husband illustrator Jerry Pinkney who attributes much of his success to her long-standing involvement in his work.

Over the years Gloria and Jerry have has collaborated in making quality books for children. She has hired his models, assembled costumes, photographed sets, and helped him research. Today, she continues to be closely involved with the illustration process. Back Home marked a new collaboration between the Pinkneys -- the first book written by Gloria and illustrated byJerry the product of a long happy and productive partnership.

The Pinkneys have four adult children, all of whom are working in the creative arts.