JoAnn Kitchel is a freelance illustrator who works in watercolors and pen & ink. Her subjects have ranged from light-hearted children's themes to sophisticated multicultural narratives.

JoAnn received her B.A. in Art Education from Central Michigan University in 1989. Upon graduation, she moved to the West Indies, where she taught art for nearly four years as a Peace Corps Volunteer. The West Indian culture and landscape have played an invaluable role in the development of JoAnn's artistic style.

The illustrator of over a dozen books for children, JoAnn also enjoys giving classroom presentations and sharing her stories and drawings with students.

JoAnn is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Her client list includes: Charlesbridge Publishing, Chronicle Books, Harper Collins, Silver Burdett & Ginn, Pelican Publishing Company, Williamson Publishing, Celebration Press, House Beautiful, Jazziz, Cobblestone Publishing, Multicultural Media, Today's Black Woman, Cat Fancy, Dog Fancy, Children's Better Health Institute, Bird Watcher's Digest, LadyBug Magazine, American Bible Society, Torah Aura Productions, Richard C. Owen Publishers, and Highlights for Children.