About Melissa Trempe
Melissa hopes to make the world a better place one book at a time. She enjoys writing both fiction and nonfiction. Her first book, Ladybug Launch, is historical and inspired by a true story. Her second book is an astronaut biography about Eileen Collins titled The Girl Who Dreamed of Space, which releases in 2027.
Melissa grew up in rural Pennsylvania across the street from a dairy farm where she loved to spend time outdoors exploring nature. Today she lives outside of Philadelphia where she taught 5th and 6th grade for 14 wonderful years.
More than anything, Melissa loves being a mom and author, but she’s also an avid reader, coffee drinker, ice cream eater, Penn Stater, dog lover, beach goer, and world traveler.
If she’s not at home writing, you might find her at the local library (paying late fees) or out walking her dog with her wonderful family.
Q&A for Kids
That’s me at 4 years old!
Your first book is about a ladybug. Do you like insects?
I actually do! (And who doesn’t love a ladybug?!) My son wanted to bring a caterpillar into the house a few years ago, and we made him a terrarium. We named him Sparky, and watched him transform into a butterfly! We’ve been enamored with insects ever since. I actually have another manuscript about a self-conscious stink bug that I hope will be a book one day.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be?
When I was a toddler, I’m told that I wanted to be a cow. Yup, a cow! Later, in elementary school, I dreamed of being a football player for the NY Giants. Neither of those career choices were looking good, and I LOVED my second grade teacher. I decided I wanted to be just like her, and I become a teacher.
What’s your favorite food?
Ice cream! Two of my favorite flavors are coffee and chocolate peanut butter. I also love artichokes!
Do you have pets?
Yes! I have a black and grey husky named Kira. We’re often asked if she’s part wolf, but she is 100% dog. As a kid, I had an enormous St. Bernard named Daisy. We also had cats, and my sister and I both had pet rats!
Did you love reading and writing as a kid?
In first and second grade, I was a struggling reader, but I still loved picture books. I would look at the illustrations and create my own stories. As I got older, I made my own miniature books by folding paper, and you can create your own books too!
Kids love animals! What are some of your favorite animal encounters?
I fed manatees at a rescue center in Florida, swam with sharks at the Camden Aquarium, and fed wild deer in the Queen of Denmark’s park!
Can I write to you?
YES! I’d love to hear from you. Email me at melissatrempebooks@gmail.com.
Daisy
Kira