Donna Hess has authored novels as well as literature guides for school use. Hess graduated from Bob Jones University with a degree in dramatic production and social studies education, and has written extensively for the university's press. She has been both a teacher and a writer of textbooks. Her curricula include a speech textbook, as well as Best Books for Kindergarten through High School, Excursions in Literature for Christian Schools, and Elements of Literature for Christian Schools. Hess has also written historical fiction for school-aged readers, including the World War II story Father's Promise.