John Bemelmans Marciano, like his grandfather Ludwig Bemelmans, is a talented artist as well as a writer of both adult and children's books.

As he carries on the Madeline legacy, John faithfully evokes the style and spirit of the original Madeline books, while adding his own unique stamp to story and pictures. His previous Madeline books include Madeline at the White House, Madeline and the Cats of Rome, and Madeline Says Merci. He is also the author of The 9 Lives of Alexander Baddenfiled, illustrated by Sophie Blackall.

John grew up on a horse farm in Three Bridges, New Jersey, and attended Columbia University in New York City. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife, Andromache, who is a set designer, and their daughter Galatea.