About Melissa

Thank you for visiting my website!

I hope you enjoy my stories and read them aloud, again and again!

My life as a storyteller started when I was a young girl. I would write stories about my family, friends, pets, and the ducks that lived on Merrick Bay, where I grew up. Sometimes I even illustrated my stories! Today, I am an author, writing about children, animals, family history and heritage, and family rituals. Through my books, I aim to bring joy, understanding, and kindness to the world.

My newest picture book is HAZEL AND MABEL: TWO HEARTS APART, illustrated by Anita Bagdi (Gnome Road Publishing, September 30, 2025). It’s a story about friendship, accepting change, and the power of connection.

I am also the author of the chapter book, THE ENCHANTED SNOW GLOBE COLLECTION: RETURN TO CONEY ISLAND, and the picture books, SCARLET’S MAGIC PAINTBRUSH, READY, SET, GORILLA!, SADIE’S SHABBAT STORIES, PLANTING FRIENDSHIP: PEACE, SALAAM, SHALOM, and BUILDING BRIDGES: PEACE, SALAAM, SHALOM.

I am an active member of SCBWI and SCBWI Metro-NY, a judge for Rate Your Story, an Assistant and Blogger for the Children’s Book Academy, and a Member of the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge.

A former practicing attorney and legal research and writing instructor, I live in Manhattan with my husband, three children, and one puppy. When not writing or reading, I can be found observing the stars, collecting shells, and enjoying museums, travel, and Broadway shows.