About

Howard Friedlander is no stranger to storytelling. His creative career spans decades across television, film, and now children’s literature and at the heart of all his stories is one clear thread: a deep love for characters who feel real, face real struggles, and find their voice through courage.

Howard’s writing journey began early. At just nine years old, he penned his first original story about a stray dog named Barney who saved a town from a fire. That story won the heart of his classroom and sparked a lifelong passion for writing. From that moment, he knew: this was what he was meant to do.

Throughout his professional career, Howard has written everything from half-hour sitcoms to action-packed screenplays. He co-scripted the pilot for the iconic television series Kung Fu, and for seven years served as the head writer for the beloved children’s show Captain Kangaroo. Whether writing comedy, mystery, or adventure, Howard’s stories have always been shaped by imagination, compassion, and a touch of wonder.

Now, with The Ugly Pumpkin, Howard steps into the world of children’s books, bringing with him decades of experience and a heart full of timeless lessons. This story is one he told himself first and once he realized how much it meant to him, he knew it could mean something special to others too.

He hopes that The Ugly Pumpkin will make children laugh, reflect, and feel a little braver about being exactly who they are.