📖 Overview
Nicole Melleby is a children's book author known for writing contemporary middle grade fiction that explores LGBTQ+ themes, mental health, and complex family dynamics. Her debut novel Hurricane Season (2019) received multiple accolades including being named to several "Best Of" lists.
Melleby's works frequently feature young protagonists discovering their identity and navigating challenging emotional terrain. Her books How to Become a Planet (2021) and The Science of Being Angry (2022) deal with topics like depression, anxiety, and managing difficult emotions while incorporating elements of science and art.
Living in New Jersey, Melleby draws from her experience as a former middle school teacher to create authentic middle grade voices. She holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts.
Her contributions to LGBTQ+ middle grade literature have been recognized through various honors including being selected for the Rainbow Book List and being named a Lambda Literary Award finalist. Melleby continues to write books that combine serious themes with accessible storytelling for young readers.
👀 Reviews
Readers consistently highlight Melleby's authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ youth and mental health challenges in middle grade fiction. Many reviewers note her ability to handle complex topics with care while keeping stories accessible for young readers.
What readers liked:
- Realistic depiction of anxiety and depression
- Natural integration of LGBTQ+ characters and themes
- Strong parent-child relationship dynamics
- Scientific and artistic elements woven into narratives
- Age-appropriate handling of serious topics
What readers disliked:
- Some found pacing slow in certain books
- A few noted emotional intensity may be challenging for sensitive readers
- Occasional criticism of predictable plot elements
Ratings across platforms:
- Goodreads: Hurricane Season 4.2/5 (2,800+ ratings)
- How to Become a Planet 4.3/5 (1,200+ ratings)
- The Science of Being Angry 4.4/5 (500+ ratings)
- Amazon averages 4.5/5 across titles
One reader noted: "Melleby writes mental health with such care and understanding." Another commented: "Finally, LGBTQ+ middle grade that feels real without being overwhelming."
📚 Books by Nicole Melleby
In the Role of Brie Hutchens...
A 13-year-old soap opera-loving girl navigates her Catholic school life while coming to terms with her sexuality and her relationship with her mother.
How to Become a Planet A 12-year-old astronomy enthusiast deals with depression and anxiety while attempting to meet a summer goals list she created before her diagnosis.
Hurricane Season The daughter of a struggling musician father learns about Vincent van Gogh while managing her father's bipolar disorder and her own place in the world.
The Science of Being Angry An 11-year-old girl with anger management issues explores the genetics of emotions while trying to understand her family dynamics and her own outbursts.
Late Bloomer A seventh-grade girl with chronic pain condition faces challenges in dance class while exploring her identity and relationships with family and friends.
How to Become a Planet A 12-year-old astronomy enthusiast deals with depression and anxiety while attempting to meet a summer goals list she created before her diagnosis.
Hurricane Season The daughter of a struggling musician father learns about Vincent van Gogh while managing her father's bipolar disorder and her own place in the world.
The Science of Being Angry An 11-year-old girl with anger management issues explores the genetics of emotions while trying to understand her family dynamics and her own outbursts.
Late Bloomer A seventh-grade girl with chronic pain condition faces challenges in dance class while exploring her identity and relationships with family and friends.
👥 Similar authors
Ashley Herring Blake writes middle grade novels featuring LGBTQ+ characters discovering their identity while navigating family relationships. Her books include themes of art, music, and self-acceptance similar to Melleby's work.
Lisa Jenn Bigelow focuses on middle grade stories that explore first crushes, family dynamics, and creative pursuits like music and theater. Her characters deal with changing relationships and growing self-awareness like those in Melleby's books.
Barbara Dee creates stories about middle school students dealing with identity, mental health, and family changes. Her books address complex emotions and real-life challenges while maintaining accessibility for young readers.
Alex Gino writes books featuring transgender and LGBTQ+ characters in middle grade settings. Their work centers on character growth and acceptance within families and communities.
Kacen Callender tells stories about LGBTQ+ youth exploring their identity while dealing with family expectations and personal challenges. Their books include themes of self-discovery and mental health similar to Melleby's work.
Lisa Jenn Bigelow focuses on middle grade stories that explore first crushes, family dynamics, and creative pursuits like music and theater. Her characters deal with changing relationships and growing self-awareness like those in Melleby's books.
Barbara Dee creates stories about middle school students dealing with identity, mental health, and family changes. Her books address complex emotions and real-life challenges while maintaining accessibility for young readers.
Alex Gino writes books featuring transgender and LGBTQ+ characters in middle grade settings. Their work centers on character growth and acceptance within families and communities.
Kacen Callender tells stories about LGBTQ+ youth exploring their identity while dealing with family expectations and personal challenges. Their books include themes of self-discovery and mental health similar to Melleby's work.