Jean Davies Okimoto is an acclaimed author whose career spans children's literature, adult fiction, and playwriting. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1942, she published her first book with Putnam in 1978 and has since authored eighteen works, including her debut adult novel, "The Love Ceiling," which won the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Award. Her other notable titles include "George Beasley's Better Angel," "The Reinvention of Albert Paugh," and "Walter's Muse," the latter named an Indie Next pick by the American Booksellers Association. Okimoto's works have been translated into multiple languages and adapted for television, including an animated version of her story "Blumpoe the Grumpoe Meets Arnold the Cat," narrated by John Candy.
Okimoto's writing often explores themes of family dynamics, aging, and the complexities of women's roles across generations. Her novels, such as "The Love Ceiling," delve into the challenges of long-term relationships, retirement, and parenting adult children with nuance and emotional depth. She has received widespread recognition for her contributions to literature, including the American Library Association Best Book for Young Adults Award, the Washington Governor’s Award, and the Green Earth Book Award. Additionally, two of her children's books, "A Place For Grace" and "No Dear, Not Here," were designated Smithsonian Notable Books.
Beyond her literary achievements, Okimoto is a retired psychotherapist with a master's degree in psychology from Antioch University. She founded the Seattle Reading Awards, a program honoring fifth-grade students who show significant improvement in reading. Her plays, including "Hum it Again, Jeremy" and "Uncle Hideki," have been staged in schools and theaters across North America. A longtime resident of Vashon Island, Washington, Okimoto continues to write while balancing her roles as a wife, mother, and grandmother.