Ms. Smith lives in Pittsford, New York, with her pup Daisy. She received a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from Rochester Institute of Technology in 1961. She was an editorial illustrator for Rochester Gannett newspapers, and taught illustration at R.I.T. She has been drawing since she could hold a pencil in her hand and has been illustrating trade books since 1985. Peggy Thomas is fascinated by the world around her. Growing up outside Buffalo, New York, she and her brother, illustrator Paul Facklam, did not have to wish too hard for snow, but the weather inspired them to create Snow Dance, so that every child could enjoy a snow day. Mrs. Thomas received a masteris degree in anthropology from the State University of New York and is a member of the Society of Children's Book writers and Illustrators.