Tough Jim

Miriam Cohen was an avid champion of the emotional rights of children, and was interested in their "immense vulnerability, and their need to be nurtured, encouraged, and allowed to unfold naturally." She had spent many hours in classrooms reading, listening, and talking with children 'not as a lecturer, but as a fellow writer.' The time she had spent in the company of children is one reason why her books ring true, and why young readers hear themselves in the voices of her characters.

Ronald Himler began his career as a children's book artist in 1972, and has illustrated over 160 books and several hundred book covers. He has received more than thirty-five awards, nominations, and citations of excellence including a Silver Medal from the Society of Illustrators and a Christopher Award. Several of his books have been Reading Rainbow Selections. In addition to illustrating children's books, Ron also makes oil paintings of Plains Indian culture that are exhibited in galleries throughout the country. Ron lives in the desert outside of Tucson, AZ.