Mark Greenwood is the author of numerous children's books published in both the United States and his native Australia, several of which were created in collaboration with his wife, illustrator FranLessac. Greenwood is also an accomplished drummer. His interest in world music and his frequent travels to the Caribbean led him to this story of a drummer boy based on the life of musician Winston "Spree" Simon. Greenwood and Lessac live in Fremantle, West Australia. FranLessac has illustrated more than thirty-five books for young readers, several of which she has also written. Born in New Jersey, Lessac later lived on the island of Montserrat. Her time there inspired her to create many stories with Caribbean settings and themes. Working on Drummer Boy of John John gave Lessac an opportunity to visit the Caribbean again, to research her illustrations.

She currently lives in Fremantle, West Australia, with her author husband.