Melody Carlson has published more than ninety books for children, teens and adults – with sales totaling more than two million copies and many titles appearing on the ECPA bestsellers list. Several of Melody’s books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards, including the Gold Medallion and the RITA Award. Over the years, Melody has worn many hats, from preschool teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor and author. She has two grown sons and lives in central Oregon with her husband and chocolate Lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.