Wilkinson, Joan Lavern Marshall: - A native of Barbados, Joan L. Marshall grew up sharing a household with her six siblings and three first cousins. Her poems are about simplicity, but they also recognize the complex extended family network and village who helped raise and shape her, contributing to a wonderful childhood. Marshall has always aspired to be a published author ever since she won an essay writing contest in high school, at the Alleyne school which she attended. Her family encouraged her writing, with her son challenging her to write a poem a day. Marshall also writes skits and performs for her church and for cultural groups. Sun, Sea, Sky, and Sometimes Mud is her first book.

Joan L. Marshall is originally from the parish of St. Joseph in Barbados.
She lives in Toronto, Ontario, with her family.