Joan Mullen, a children's book writer, is the author of "Coal in My Christmas Stocking." The story is based on her own experience as a child. She used the knowledge gained from working as a speech-language pathologist and elementary school principal to write the book. Working with children for more than twenty-five years sensitized her to the empowerment that emotional expression brings to youngsters. Additionally, Joan recognizes the elements important to children’s stories and incorporates them into her writing.