Originally from Huntington Beach, California, Michelle's family moved to Washington State the summer of her junior year in high school. She chose to stay in the Seattle area, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, majoring in Child Growth and Development with a minor in Speech and Hearing Science, at the University of Washington. Michelle continued at the university with graduate level study in learning theory, curriculum development, and public health, to earn a Master of Science degree in Health Education and her Doctorate in Education.

Michelle's extensive experience in curriculum development and design spans the last twenty years. She's created educational programs and materials for adult learners in education, business, health care, and industry, as well as for young learners (preschool through grade 8). A professional musician, she employs her love of music and song to augment her work with young audiences across the country.

To date, Michelle has written fourteen books and has produced music for three recordings. Her works include a poetry collection, language arts titles, science activity books, and picture books. She is currently producing a CD of fun earth science songs and a CD of inspiring music for young authors.

Nestled amongst huge evergreen trees in the Pacific Northwest, Michelle writes her books in her home office. She volunteers as a writer-in-residence in five elementary school classrooms every week, sharing and testing her ideas with the audience she serves. As an educational consultant, Michelle facilitates dynamic teacher - classroom workshops and performs interactive and entertaining educational assemblies in schools nationwide.

Michelle currently resides in the Seattle area with her husband, Gid Palmer, their son, Nick Palmer, and their two feline family members - Scilla and Snickers.