Bio:

Judy Cox grew up near San Francisco. The oldest of five children, she loved to tell stories to her younger brother and sisters. Learning to read opened up the world of books, and at a young age Judy decided to become a writer. She started her first book at the age of eleven, but never even finished the first chapter! She continued to write through school and college.

A Master's degree in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona led her to a career as an elementary teacher. "Perfect training for a children's writer," she says. "You get to read so many great books!" Judy Cox taught Kindergarten through third grade in schools in Arizona, Oregon, and Idaho.

Judy started submitting books and short stories to publishers when she was home with her young son. She has had twenty-one books published and more than thirty short stories in magazines such as Cricket, Spider, and Highlights. Her books have been honored with many awards. In 2000, WEIRD STORIES FROM THE LONESOME CAFE won the Nevada Young Readers Award. In 2005 and 2009, books in her Mrs. Millie series were named by TIME magazine as top books of the year. In 2004, illustrator Elbrite Brown was awarded the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award for his illustrations in MY FAMILY PLAYS MUSIC. In 2009, ONE IS A FEAST FOR MOUSE won the Anne Izard Storyteller's Choice Award.

With her background in performing music and teaching, she enjoys speaking at schools, festivals, and libraries. Her interests include music, reading, and bird watching. She lives with her family in Ontario, Oregon.



Writer
PAL
Member since 1992
Region: Oregon

Contact Information

Current Location:   OR
Website:  http://www.judycox.net

Published In Children's Market: Yes
Available for Speaking Engagements? Yes