Ronda Armitage was born in New Zealand. She is the author of many books for children, including the well-loved Lighthouse Keeper series of stories, which tell of the adventures of Mr. and Mrs. Grinling and their marmalade cat, Hamish. Most of her books are illustrated by her husband, David, who is an artist. She was a primary school teacher for several years, and is a trained counsellor, specialising in family therapy.