Bio:

I grew up in the Cascade mountains of northern California, wanted to be an astronomer, but turned into a forest ranger instead. In the meantime, I put myself through college working in construction, firefighting, and playing lead guitar in a very un-famous rock band. I later seriously pursued song writing and performed in a folk group while living in San Francisco in the 1960's and 1970's.

In addition to an eventual career in the Forest Service, I've produced occasional radio jingles, been an audio visual consultant, and worked as a staff sound designer for a professional live theater. Over time, I took up acting and traveled around the country performing a multi-media portrayal of a turn of the century conservationist, a production I wrote and constructed. I still do that occasionally.

I started writing children's books because my wife, author and illustrator Anna Grossnickle Hines, suggested it. My work in the Forest Service included developing slide presentations for both kids and adults--putting words with pictures, like a picture book but different.

After attending numerous conferences and workshops to familiarize myself with the business, I was lucky enough to sell my first book and my writing life began.


Writer/Illustrator
PAL
Member since 1986
Region: California: North/Central

Contact Information

Website:  http://www.garyhines.com

Published In Children's Market: Yes