Meet the Author
Melanie Stine Shannon is an educator, children’s literacy advocate, and author of uplifting picture books that inspire kindness, resilience, and imagination in young readers.
Melanie writes heartwarming picture books that weave timeless life lessons into enchanting tales children can understand. Her stories, often shared as kindness picture books for kids, optimism books for kids, moral stories for children, and children’s stories about resilience, are perfect for read-aloud picture books for the classroom or illustrated bedtime stories that spark meaningful family conversations.
With a background in education and a lifelong love for storytelling, she writes to inspire optimism, kindness, and imagination in young readers, helping them discover the magic in everyday moments. Drawing on her years as a college professor, Melanie crafts engaging and memorable stories that encourage children to meet challenges with courage and joy.
As the Executive Director of Spark Growth, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering creativity and literacy, she works closely with teachers, site directors, and parents. This hands-on collaboration gives her valuable insight into children’s interests, areas where they need encouragement, and the inspiration that lights up their learning, insights that shape every book she writes for today’s young readers.
Based in sunny Southern California, Melanie enjoys gardening, hiking in Joshua Tree National Park, and spending time with her husband and daughters. She left her teaching career to follow her dream of writing books that plant seeds of kindness, hope, and purpose, one story at a time.
Melanie's Latest Releases
Coloring Books!!
The tale of the resilient Joshua tree beautifully embodies the significance of forging a bond with the natural world. Just as the rugged landscape cradles the Joshua tree, offering it sustenance and strength, so too can nature uplift and nourish our spirits. When this iconic tree feels a sense of separation from its surroundings, it bows in a graceful bend—a poignant reminder that our well-being flourishes when we remain connected to the earth that nurtures us. In this enchanting coloring book, you are invited to unleash your creativity, allowing the soothing essence of nature to envelop you as you embark on a journey of self-care and inner peace. Let the pages come alive with your imagination and embrace the tranquility that blossoms when you nurture both yourself and the world around you.
​The story of Therein, the traveling tortoise, teaches us to appreciate what lies within ourselves. It offers a valuable lesson for all ages about finding inner peace and understanding our true desires. At first, Therein seeks happiness by exploring new places and achieving various goals, but he still feels empty. Ultimately, he discovers that true happiness was within him all along. His journey reflects a common concern for both children and adults: the belief that happiness is found elsewhere. With the support of his friends, Therein realizes the gifts he has always possessed. True happiness comes from within. Delve into this enchanting coloring book, where each illustration encourages you to express your artistic nature. Experience the tranquility that arises as you embrace your true self, nurturing your well-being on every page.
The Story of The Crossing Quail is a heartwarming, beautifully illustrated coloring book that follows a little quail full of worries and self-doubt. Unsure of her place in the world, she hesitates—afraid to move forward. But through gentle lessons and unexpected encounters, she learns the power of trust, patience, and letting go. Perfect for children and adults alike, this book blends creativity with an uplifting tale about courage, growth, and finding peace within. Each page brings the quail’s journey to life with whimsical illustrations, encouraging readers to slow down, reflect, and color their way toward calm and contentment. Let your imagination take flight with The Crossing Quail—where every step forward is a step toward joy.
READING IS AWESOME!
It really is when it is not a chore. Enjoyable kid’s books make the difference between books your kids want to read and ones that stay on the shelf Armed with a life-long love of books, Melanie loves to create stories for kids. These delightful children’s books share her passion through vivid storytelling and illustrations. Each character in these short child stories shares a valuable lesson about growth, happiness, and diversity through personal discovery. Take some time and explore the characters in these short stories. Get to know Henry, Charlie and the others as you follow their journey of discovery.