About the Author and Illustrator

Melissa was born in Memphis and has now spent as many years in Tampa as in Memphis. Both cities hold a special spot in her heart. It was her Memphis roots and Goodnight Memphis, (Grace Skertich) that sparked the writing of Goodnight Tampa.

Her career started in Memphis and brought her to Tampa marketing Coppertone sun care products across the state of Florida. She served as Marketing Director for the Lowry Park Zoo and the Yankees, both featured in the book.

The last 10 years have been dedicated to the Heart Gallery and finding homes for children in foster care who are available for adoption. She and John, and labrador, Casey, live in South Tampa.

Contact Melissa at (813) 624-3840.

Donna moved from Baltimore to Sarasota, FL to attend Ringling School of Art. She studied illustration and graphic design. Hallmark Cards in Kansas City, MO. hired her as an illustrator.

After several years she decided to move back to Florida. Donna worked as a designer for local and national companies using her illustration experience to give her a design edge. Melissa and Donna met while working to promote the Lowry Park Zoo.

The last few years have been a carnival ride of ventures, including jewelry design and starting a food truck in Tampa.

She is supported by the best friends ever and her 2 dogs Major and Qimmick