Judith Byron Schachner

Judith Byron "Judy" Schachner (born August 20, 1951) is an American children's writer and illustrator. She is best known for the Skippyjon Jones series. Schachner lives in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Bob, and a dog and her two Siamese cats.

Early life Growing up, Schachner had a difficult childhood. She was born and raised in Waltham, Massachusetts, by her parents Edward and Mary Francis Byron. She grew up the youngest and has two older brothers, Kevin and Ted. Her family was working class. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when Judy was eight years old. Growing up, she struggled with anxiety and drawing was her way to cope with it. Judy was having difficulties in school, as well. All through her early schooling, Judy did not excel in mathematics and science. Her teachers would constantly comment on how shy Judy was. However, her teachers and classmates did notice she had a very good artistic eye. She attended the Massachusetts College of Art and graduated in 1973 with a BFA in illustration. “Yo, Vikings!” is based on a true story about her daughters. She is best known for her book series, Skippyjon Jones. Skippyjon Jones is inspired by her own cat and her brothers, Ted and Kevin. and The State Children’s Choice Awards in the states of Indiana, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and Washington.