Walter J. Hill is a lifelong New Jersey resident who grew up in Central Jersey and now enjoys retirement in North Jersey. He proudly served in both the U.S. Marines and the U.S. Army for a combined 28 years, working in a wide range of military roles and locations. After leaving military service, Walter spent fifteen years as a carpenter before turning his focus to art. Using his G.I. Bill benefits, he studied watercolor painting at a local community college and went on to develop his skills in both watercolor and acrylic, with a special focus on landscapes and birds. Inspired by friends, family, and his own life experiences, Walter began writing young adult fiction to share the lessons, dreams, and resilience that have shaped his journey.