Jo Clayton

Jo Clayton was an American author best known for her contributions to science fiction and fantasy literature. She gained recognition for her imaginative storytelling, particularly through series such as "Diadem" and "Drums of Chaos." Her works often blended rich world-building with intricate character development, earning her a dedicated readership. Among her notable achievements was the completion of "Drum Calls," the second installment in the "Drums of Chaos" series, despite battling illness during its creation.

Born and raised in Modesto, California, Clayton grew up surrounded by storytelling, often crafting science fiction and fantasy tales for her sisters. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of California in 1963 and later taught near Los Angeles. After a brief period as a novice with the Sisters of Mount Carmel in New Orleans, she pursued writing full-time, supplementing her income by selling sketches and paintings. Clayton relocated to Portland, Oregon, in 1983, where she spent the remainder of her life. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 1996, she continued writing prolifically until her passing in 1998. Author Kevin Andrew Murphy completed the final book in her "Drums of Chaos" series posthumously.