Brain Snacks: Tasty Tidbits of Knowledge
Lorraine and John were based on teenagers Paul Zindel knew; Lorraine's mother was based, to some extent, on his own mother (!!!) and Mr. Pignati was based on a grandfatherly Italian-American man, Nonno Frankie, who was an important part of Paul Zindel's childhood. (Source)
Paul Zindel was born on Staten Island, attended college there, and taught high-school chemistry there. He was also an accomplished playwright. (Source)
Paul Zindel was an extremely prolific author of classic novels, mystery novels, adventure novels, TV movies, plays, and screenplays. (Source)