For more than a decade Gillian Cross has demonstrated her versatility as a writer in novels ranging from historical fiction to school stories and suspense. In recent years her books for children and young adults have earned a succession of literary awards, including the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread Children's Novel Award. Yet above all she tries to keep in mind the demands of the reluctant reader, whom she identifies as "the practical, unliterary one who doesn't usually read, but who might--just might--pick up one of my books."

Gillian Clare Arnold was born in London on 24 December 1945. Her father, James Eric Arnold, had a Ph.D. in chemistry and was managing director of a paint company. In addition he served as organist and choirmaster at All Saints', Margaret Street, noted for its music. Her mother, Joan (Manton) Arnold, was an English teacher. Cross grew up in the northern...