Katherine Kirkpatrick's fascination with history has inspired her to write several works of historical fiction for children: a picture book, "Redcoats and Petticoats," illustrated by Ronald Himler: and three widely praised novels for young adults. "Keeping the Good Light," "Voyage of the Continental," and "Trouble's Daughter: The Story of Susanna Hutchinson," "Indian Captive," which was called "a compelling saga" in a starred Booklist review. A native of New York State, Ms. Kirkpatrick now lives with her husband and two daughters in Seattle, Washington.