J.J. PRITCHARD, born in Seattle, Washington, first became intrigued by Oak Island when he was a young boy and read a news story about the Money Pit. His interest flourished as more accounts about the exploration of the island were available in print and shown on television. He has an undergraduate degree in Cinematography from the University of Southern
California and a Masters degree in Business Administration from the University of California at Long Beach. He has worked in the investments field for more than 20 years. In 1993, Pritchard established the Helmets For Youth Foundation which provides bicycle safety helmets to low income children in Washington State, after he was in a near-fatal bicycle accident. Over 10,000 helmets have been distributed, free of charge. In 2000, he received a national Lifesaver Award, from the U.S.
Department of Transporation as recognirion for his efforts in transportation related injury prevention.

He lives on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, with his wife, two kids and three cats. He is the author of Quest for the Pillars of Wealth for young readers. The Secret Treasures of Oak Island is his first adventure novel.