The author (and graphic designer), Joan Arnold, loves books, from the way the letters look on the page to choosing the right words. This story is inspired by authors like Tolkien, Lewis, and LeGuin who made worlds that are real even though they have never existed. The illustrator, Peggy Meitzen, is a professional artist who undertook this project as part of her recuperation from bone cancer. Her depiction of Norman is based on her son Bobby. She and her husband Terry also have another son, Tim.