Janwillem van de Wetering was a Dutch author best known for his detective fiction, particularly the acclaimed "Grijpstra and de Gier" series. His works, written in both English and Dutch, spanned multiple genres, including crime novels and children's literature. Among his notable creations was the children's series featuring Hugh Pine, a porcupine, which drew inspiration from his time in Surry, Maine.
Born in Rotterdam on February 12, 1931, van de Wetering led a globally itinerant life, residing in countries such as Colombia, Australia, South Africa, Peru, Japan, and the Netherlands. His diverse experiences abroad often influenced his writing, lending authenticity to his settings and characters. The "Grijpstra and de Gier" series, for instance, incorporated elements of his time in Amsterdam and Maine, blending procedural detective work with philosophical undertones. His children's books, meanwhile, reflected his playful and imaginative side.