The Night Before Valentine's Day

Natasha is best known for her “The Night Before” series that’s based on the Christmas classic, The Night Before Christmas. She writes mostly fiction for young children, but has also published narrative non-fiction. “I like finding little known facts about well-known people and sharing them with kids.” Three of her books have been translated into foreign languages. Natasha has been publishing since 1994 and has more stories in the works. She lives with her husband and cat, Purrsia, in Colorado. She collects squished pennies. Her happy place is being at the beach.

Heidi Petach has enjoyed a number of unusual careers on her way to becoming a bestselling illustrator and author. With a master’s degree with highest distinction from Indiana University School of Music, Heidi initially launched a career as a concert pianist and composer. She played concerts around the world, was featured on TV and radio, made recordings, and was commissioned to compose solo piano, piano/organ, and orchestral works. Following her music career, Petach worked in Promotions and Special Events at the Cincinnati Zoo. Her continuing love of animals is evident in all her books. Creating the artwork for the Zoo’s brochures and flyers inspired her to enroll full-time at the Cincinnati Academy of Design. A tip from a neighbor connected Heidi with a local publisher and she released her first children’s picture book. Contracts with major publishers, including Grosset & Dunlap and Putnam, soon followed. Petach’s books have received glowing reviews and have been nominated for awards. The Night Before Valentine’s Day by Natasha Wing appeared on the New York Times children’s books bestsellers list for five weeks running.