As a child, author Michelle Keyes would nestle among the branches of her family's oak tree to write magical stories. Becoming a writer was never far from her mind as she later began a career in book publishing, copywriting, and becoming a children's librarian. Her new picture book, The Easter Bear, is her first foray as a children's book [...] as the "Bookworm Athlete," she excels as a speed reader, picture book collector, and a triathlete who has qualified for world championships. Beyond weaving stories for children, Michelle enjoys spending time with family and friends as well as activities such as hiking, cooking, traveling, and horseback riding. She has an MLIS from the University of Kentucky and an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Spalding University. She hopes her writing ignites an imaginative spark in her young readers, encouraging them to work hard and pursue their dreams despite challenges along the way.