About the Author

Judging Noa is Michal Strutin’s debut novel, short-listed for the Chanticleer Chaucer Book Award. She is now working on a mystery series set in the Late Renaissance. Michal’s award-winning nonfiction focuses on natural and cultural history and travel. Her eight nonfiction books include Places of Grace: the Natural Landscapes of the American Midwest with photographer Gary Irving; Discovering Natural Israel, a high-spirited discovery of flora, fauna, and people; Florida State Parks: a Complete Recreation Guide; and the national park's History Hikes of the Smokies.

Michal’s articles have appeared in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Tablet, Outside, and many others. She worked as an editor at National Parks, Outside, San Francisco Examiner, and The Washington Post, and copy editor at Rolling Stone. She is also a research librarian, most recently serving as science librarian at Santa Clara University.

When I'm not writing, I’m often gardening. A passionate gardener, I've planted native gardens wherever I've lived. My husband and I now live in the Bay Area to be close to family. I love traveling, for book research and to places where I can encounter other cultures, places that take me a little bit out of my comfort zone. When I’m in my comfort zone, I’m hiking, birdwatching, or relaxing with family and friends.