Ann M. Martin is the writer of the original Baby-Sitters Club series and dozens of other children’s books. Martin was born in 1955 in Princeton, New Jersey. She studied child psychology and early childhood education at Smith College, and upon graduation, she spent a year teaching before beginning her career as an editor. In 1983, she published her first novel, Bummer Summer, which was soon followed by three other novels. Martin was then asked to write four books about a group of girls who babysit, and the idea for the Baby-Sitters Club series was born. Martin was excited to write about a babysitting club because it was something she and her best friend loved to do growing up, and she could identify with the passion behind the project. Martin based the character of Mary Anne loosely off her own personality, with Kristy’s character being based on her best friend.

Martin’s stories about this group of strong girls who grow together, overcome challenges and conflicts, and develop their business along the way have been praised for being relatable and inspiring to young readers. Martin presents her characters’ flaws alongside their strengths, giving the characters room to grow and demonstrating the steps each takes to improve as a person.