Leggett Abouraya, Karen: - Karen Leggett Abouraya is a veteran print and broadcast journalist (WMAL Radio in Washington, D.C.) who has reviewed children's books for The New York Times, Children's Literature, Washington Parent, and more. She is a past president and active member of the Children's Book Guild of Washington, D.C. Karen, her Egyptian husband and their two children have traveled frequently to Egypt, so it is not surprising that Egypt is the focus of her children's books, including Zamzam: Two Worlds.

Roth, Susan L.: - Susan L. Roth is the author and illustrator of over sixty wonderful books for children, including Hard Hat Area and the best-selling My Love for You. Her books have received such awards as the New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year, ABA Pick of the Lists, and the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award. She has three grown children and lives with her husband in New York City.