Joan Schoettler's writing demonstrates a global view as her stories traverse the world. Her focus of interest is inspired by true people, intriguing actual events, and the lived experiences of people from diverse backgrounds. The Honey Jar: An Armenian's Escape to Freedom, her first middle-grade novel, received the California Book Award, Juvenile, Gold Medal Book 2024. Joan's other picture books include Ruth Asawa: A Sculpting Life, A Home for George, and Good Fortune in a Wrapping Cloth. Joan earned a master of arts degree in reading and language from Fresno Pacific University. She taught children's literature and storytelling at California State University, Fresno. Joan lives with her husband in California where they raised three sons. Her grandchildren continue to inspire her writing.