Melanie Conklin is an award-winning American author of middle-grade fiction known for her heartfelt, emotionally resonant storytelling. Her debut novel, "Counting Thyme," captures the complexities of family, belonging, and resilience through the eyes of a young girl navigating life's unexpected changes. She followed this with "Absolutely Almost Crushed" and "Crushed," further cementing her reputation for writing stories that speak directly to the hearts of young readers. A former product designer, Conklin brings a keen eye for detail and human connection to her writing. She is an active member of the kidlit community and a passionate advocate for children's literature.