Ellen Jackson is an award-winning author of more than fifty-five fiction and nonfiction books for children. Her works span a broad range—from whimsical rhyming picture books to deeply researched nonfiction covering science, natural phenomena, and social studies.
Raised in Southern California, Ellen spent her childhood fascinated by astronomy—often attending “star parties” where neighbors gazed at the night sky through her father’s telescope. This early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for explaining big ideas to kids in engaging and accessible ways. She later worked as an elementary school teacher and curriculum specialist in Los Angeles public schools, gaining firsthand insight into how children learn and engage with complex information.
Jackson now resides in Santa Barbara, California, where she lives with her husband and dog. Her books have earned numerous literary honors—including The Mysterious Universe, a Golden Kite Honor title—and Earth Mother, which received multiple starred reviews for its thoughtful portrayal of the circle of life.
Known for balancing fact with fun, Ellen writes picture books, folk tale retellings, and narrative nonfiction for older children. Some of her topics include planets and galaxies, solstices, tools, U.S. presidents, and historical lifestyles. Six of her books are rhyming picture books, and five retell folk tales.
In interviews, she emphasizes authenticity, intuition, and originality in her craft. She aims to “write the book that only I can write” and reflects often on storytelling as a natural extension of her curiosity about the world around her. Among her personal highlights: visiting the Arecibo Radio Telescope while researching a book on SETI, the pleasure of seeing her picture book Cinder Edna adapted for stage, and receiving heartfelt feedback from young readers across the globe.
Jackson’s work continues to delight and educate young audiences. Whether crafting a silly rhyming tale about animal babies (Beastly Babies), or unpacking scientific mysteries in The Mysterious Universe, she consistently delivers engaging stories that inspire wonder and learning.
