Betsy and Giulio Maestro have been creating books together since 1974. They are well known in the publishing field for their nonfiction which is characterized by attention to detail and clarity in both words and pictures. Their books have been praised for their simple, uncluttered presentation, clean and accurate prose, and colorful, striking illustrations. Their consistent, accessible approach has been well received by both reviewers and educators. The Maestros have collaborated on more than one hundred books since 1975. Their American Story Series (HarperCollins) began with The Discovery of the Americas, and now has six volumes, covering American History from the discovery of the New World through the writing of our constitution. This ongoing series continues to help young readers understand and connect events in our nation’s history.

Betsy Maestro was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and graduated from Midwood High School and Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, Connecticut. She holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and a master’s degree in counseling. She taught kindergarten and first grade for eleven years before beginning her writing career.

Giulio Maestro was born in New York City and grew up in Greenwich Village. He graduated from Music and Art High School and Cooper Union. He holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. He worked in advertising for five years before beginning his career as a book illustrator. Since 1969, he has illustrated more than one hundred and twenty-five books for young readers. He is also the author of a number of stories and riddle collections.

Many of the Maestros’ books have been chosen as Notable Books by the American Library Association and as Pick of the List selections by the American Bookseller’s Association. Giulio Maestro has had illustrations exhibited by the American Institute of Graphic Arts, the New York Society of Illustrators, and the Art Director’s Club of New York.

The Maestros live in a converted barn in Old Lyme, Connecticut with their four cats. They have two grown children, Daniela and Marco