James Howe was born in Oneida, New York. He graduated from Boston University in 1968 with a bachelor of fine arts in theater. He later moved to New York City to pursue a career in show business. He wrote the first "Bunnicula" books with his wife Debbie. Debbie Howe developed cancer and passed away in 1978.

James Howe has since remarried. He now lives with his new wife, who is also a writer, and their daughter in New York.