Every life story is on plan -even when it isn't.
Stories for children who feel deeply
and adults who notice quietly
I write children’s books grounded in observation, emotional truth, and the moments children cannot yet explain in words. These are stories about regulation, resilience, and growing up when the world feels louder than it looks.
Melissa Sullivan-Noonan
I am a children’s book author, former business executive, and child advocate who writes stories rooted in observation, emotional truth, and resilience.
My children’s picture books feature imaginative characters and gentle metaphors to help children process big feelings, embrace differences, and feel understood without being told what to do. I also write adult fiction that explores the invisible emotional burdens women carry and the quiet moments that shape our paths.
Recent Projects
These illustrations are stand-in visual placeholders to help bring the stories to life as I search for the right illustrator partner to join the journey.
Bluff the Bigfoot
A Children’s Picture Book by Melissa Sullivan-Noonan Age Range: 6–9Word Count: ~1,100Illustrated Picture Book Hook:In the hush of the forest lives Bluff, a gentle Bigfoot
Wiggles the Worm Who Couldn’t Sit Still
A Children’s Picture Book by Melissa Sullivan-Noonan Age Range: 4–8Word Count: ~1000 (approx.)Format: Illustrated Picture Book Wiggles the Worm Who Couldn’t Sit Still is a
The Boy with the Yellow Timer
The Boy with the Yellow Timer A Children’s Picture Book by Melissa Sullivan-Noonan 📚 Age Range: 4–8 ✍️ Word Count: ~700 🎨 Format: Illustrated Picture
Hadley in the Wings
A Children’s Picture Book by Melissa Sullivan-Noonan Age Range: 4–9Word Count: ~993Illustrated Picture Book Hook:Hadley is quiet, careful, and often overlooked next to her bigger-than-life,
Blog Preview
Quiet reflections, character backstories, and small truths from the road. Visit the blog to read more about the ideas behind the books and the woman behind the voice.
Growing into My Writing Style: From Characters to Feelings
When fellow writers get together, the first piece of guidance offered is the same. You have to find your voice. It is well-meaning advice, but
5 Questions to Ask a Child When Reading a Story About Differences
Stories open doors. When children read about characters who feel different, they are not just following along with the plot. They are learning how to
They Act First, Feel Later: The Characters I Write and Why
I didn’t realize there was a common thread running through all my characters until I stepped back and looked at them as a group. They
What I write
Stories written through observation, not explanation
Children navigating big internal experiences
Writing that respects quiet children and thoughtful parents
Insight into the process behind the books