Lois Duncan (April 28, 1934 – June 15, 2016), born Lois Duncan Steinmetz in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a prolific American writer renowned for her contributions to young-adult fiction, particularly within the horror, thriller, and suspense genres. Duncan began her career as a journalist and poet, but she gained widespread recognition for her novels aimed at teenagers, often exploring dark and unsettling themes. She is considered a pioneer in the development of young-adult fiction, paving the way for later authors in the genre. Her writing often focused on suspenseful narratives and explored complex psychological elements, frequently featuring troubled adolescents facing dangerous situations.






















































