Janet Louise Lunn, born in Texas in 1928, spent her early years moving between Dallas, Vermont, and the outskirts of New York City before immigrating to Canada in 1946 to attend Queen's University. She became a Canadian citizen in 1963 and raised five children with her husband, Richard, who passed away in 1987. Lunn's writing career began in earnest with the publication of her first children's book, 'Double Spell,' in 1968. She further contributed to the literary world as a children's editor for Clark, Irwin Publishers from 1972 to 1975 and notably served as the first children's author to chair the Writers' Union of Canada from 1984 to 1985. Her significant contributions to literature were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Vicky Metcalf Award in 1982, the Order of Ontario in 1996, and membership in the Order of Canada in 1997. Janet Lunn passed away in 2017 at the age of 88.

Born Janet Louise Swoboda in Dallas, Texas, on December 28, 1928, Lunn's early life was marked by several relocations. Her family moved to Vermont shortly after her birth and then to the area surrounding New York City in 1938. At the age of 18, in 1946, she moved to Canada with the intention of pursuing her education at Queen's University. It was during her studies that she met and married Richard Lunn, a fellow student. She later became a naturalized Canadian citizen in 1963. The couple had five children together.

Janet Lunn established herself as a prominent Canadian children's writer, publishing her debut novel, 'Double Spell,' in 1968. Her involvement in the literary community extended beyond her own writing; she served as a children's editor for Clark, Irwin Publishers from 1972 to 1975. A significant leadership role she undertook was becoming the first children's author to hold the position of Chair of the Writers' Union of Canada, serving from 1984 to 1985. Lunn's prolific career and impactful work garnered substantial recognition throughout her life.

Throughout her career, Janet Lunn received several prestigious awards acknowledging her contributions to literature and Canadian culture. She was honored with the Vicky Metcalf Award in 1982, recognizing her body of work. Further recognition came with her appointment to the Order of Ontario in 1996, followed by her investiture as a Member of the Order of Canada in 1997. These honors reflect the significant impact of her writing on young readers and the broader Canadian literary landscape.