Patricia C. McKissack has written more than one hundred books about the African American experience, which have garnered countless awards and honors. Her work has won countless awards, including a Newbery Honor Book, a Coretta Scott King Book Award and an NAACP Image Award. Fredrick L. McKissack Jr. is the author of serveral books, including SHOOTING STAR, which was named a Best YA Book of the Year by Kirkus Reviews. He lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with his wife and son. Randy DuBurke is the award-winning illustrator of several children's books and graphic novels.

Best Shot in the West is his first fully painted graphic novel.