About the Author and Illustrator

Melissa Chios is the author of Magic Within Us, her debut children's book, inspired by her two daughters. In their younger years, Melissa was a devoted stay-at-home mother, with a passion for leading a natural lifestyle. Melissa raised her girls holistically and focused on keeping in harmony with nature, teaching them to grow their own organic vegetables, save and sprout seeds, compost, ferment and preserve seasonal produce, cook whole foods, along with other essential skills. Their days were filled with travel, hiking, and hands-on exploration of the world around them.

Melissa Chios received her Bachelor's degree in Politics, Economics & Law, from S.U.N.Y. at Old Westbury and an Associate's degree in Business Management. While Melissa has worked mostly in accounting and finance and running her small business, she has also been largely involved in legislative advocacy, since her mid-twenties. The issues for which she advocates range from environmental and humanitarian causes to health and wellness related matters. Melissa enjoys speaking at national health & wellness conferences, empowering audiences with wellness knowledge and resources to safeguard our fundamental freedoms. Melissa also organizes fundraisers, educational events and legislative meetings focused on improving public health and securing a brighter, healthier future for generations to come.

Aubrianna Kannier is the illustrator of Magic Within Us. Aubrianna is a self-taught artist with a passion for character design. Her art explores both the familiar and the strange. From everyday people to otherworldly creatures, her colorful illustrations feature expressive faces, poses and gestures, accurately capturing the full spectrum of human emotion.