Born near Los Angeles and currently living in Santa Barbara, Bruce Hale has written nearly 20 books. Before becoming a full time writer Hale had a variety of jobs including deejay, gardener and actor. He also lived briefly in Hawaii, inspiring the setting for his books featuring Moki the Gecko. When not writing, Hale is often speaking at schools all over the country. Hale has also taught writing workshops at several colleges and universities and in 1998 received a grant to teach and study in Thailand.