Barbara de Boinville has had an extensive editorial career, specializing in government and international affairs. As the Senior Editor in the Book Department at Congressional Quarterly, she edited textbooks and reference books on public policy and U.S. government. As a freelance editor, her clients included the Brookings Institution and the World Bank. After graduating from Princeton University cum laude with a B.A. in English, Barbara received an M.A. in English from George Mason University, with a concentration in teaching writing and literature. She has continued to teach a writing course for many years as a member of George Mason University's adjunct faculty. Barbara's husband, Bryan de Boinville, is a direct descendant of Harriet de Boinville's husband, which is what led to Barbara's exploration of Harriet's life.