Michele Pam Wright has been amazed by nature all her life. Her deep respect for the natural world and her desire to inspire others has led to her series of four books, written to encourage readers to discover the magic and mystery of nature for themselves.

Born in 1962 in Toledo, Ohio, Michele has always had a variety of interests. While her high school teachers and a college professor encouraged her to be a writer, she graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a B.A. in Art with an emphasis in graphic design. She has been a professional graphic designer for 22 years, as well as a published writer, freelance photographer, and artist. She is a current member of the SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators).

Michele decided to publish the Shayla book series after she directed a weekly nature program at an elementary school. She noticed the children developed a passion to care for the environment when they were given the opportunity to explore the outdoors and discuss the natural world. Her experience with these presentations, along with interactive discussions and activities with the children, fueled her desire to publish her books.

Through poetic descriptions of the four seasons, important life lessons, and unique illustrations, the books invite children and adults alike to explore the wonders of the natural world. Michele illustrates the books by carefully creating each character from natural items she’s collected such as pine cones, nuts, and feathers. She photographs the characters and then combines them with her vibrant, full-color nature photos. Detailed instructions for readers on how to create their own nature friends are at the end of each book.

Reading with her daughters and hiking are Michele’s favorite family memories. She has been married to her husband, Randy, for 20 years and has two daughters and a grandson. She lives with her husband and their youngest daughter in Ft. Thomas, Kentucky, just outside of Cincinnati, Ohio.