Korena Di Roma Howley grew up in Asia and the U.S. and always had plenty of books in tow while traveling around the Pacific. A freelance journalist and editor, Korena primarily reports on science news and education for multiple outlets. Her second picture book, A Hanbok for Hana, also with Candlewick and illustrated by Jaime Kim, will be published in 2026. She lives in Virginia with her husband and son.