Wood's first memories of storytelling were in Sarasota, Florida, where her father was employed by Ringling Brothers Circus, commissioned to repaint the big top and sideshow murals.

Wood uses children's literature to practice art, music, drama, dance, and writing.

Her husband, Don, is the illustrator of many of her books, including King Bidgood's in the Bathtub,[3] which received a Caldecott Honor.

Their son, Bruce Robert Wood, was also an illustrator, which makes art a five generation tradition in the family.

Being asked how writing evolved her relationship with Don, she responded, "I read him a children's book during our honeymoon."