Picture an American storyteller who spun tales of psychic teens and heroic parakeets—meet Emlyn Chand! With a pen in hand since childhood, Chand has captivated readers with her vibrant young adult novels and charming children’s books. Her passion for diverse representation and storytelling shines through in every page, making her a beloved indie author and a champion for fellow writers.
As the founder of Novel Publicity, Chand not only crafts her own stories but also helps other authors shine. Her work, like the award-winning Farsighted series, blends heart, suspense, and a touch of the paranormal, earning her a special place in readers’ hearts. Let’s dive into the world of Emlyn Chand!
The Making of Emlyn Chand
Emlyn Chand, now known as Melissa Storm, was born with a love for stories, famously claiming she emerged from the womb clutching a fountain pen. Inspired by Crocket Johnson’s *Harold and the Purple Crayon*, she discovered the power of imagination early on. Growing up in the U.S., Chand’s passion for books fueled her dream of becoming an author. Her career kicked off with a bold leap into indie publishing, where she quickly made waves with her unique voice and dedication to storytelling.
Chand’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to found Novel Publicity, a PR firm that supports authors in navigating the publishing world. Married to fellow author Falcon Storm, she balances writing, business, and a lively household of parrots, dogs, and a rescue cat, all while chasing her creative dreams.
Emlyn Chand’s Unforgettable Stories
Chand’s bibliography is a colorful tapestry of genres, from young adult paranormal to children’s picture books. Her *Farsighted* series, starting with the 2011 novel *Farsighted*, follows blind teen Alex Kosmitoras, who gains visions of the future. Praised for its diverse cast and gripping plot, it won the 2012 Writer’s Digest Self-Published Novel of the Year Award. The sequel, *Open Heart*, dives deeper into Simmi Shergill’s emotional journey, tackling tough topics like eating disorders with sensitivity.
For younger readers, Chand’s *Bird Brain* series, including *Honey the Hero* and *Poppy the Proud*, features feathered heroes learning life lessons. These vibrant tales, inspired by her love for birds, teach kids about bravery and humility. Her *Timewalker Chronicles*, starting with *Fall Back*, introduces time-traveling teen Terra Wade, blending adventure with historical intrigue. Chand’s style is accessible yet profound, weaving diverse characters and universal themes into stories that resonate across ages.
Writing under her real name, Melissa Storm, Chand infuses her work with personal experiences, aiming to show her daughter the beauty of life’s everyday wonders. Her commitment to authentic representation—featuring characters of color and disabled protagonists—sets her apart in the indie publishing world.
Why Emlyn Chand Matters
Emlyn Chand’s impact goes beyond her books. Through Novel Publicity, she’s empowered countless authors to share their stories, fostering a supportive indie publishing community. Her focus on diversity in young adult and children’s literature challenges stereotypes and amplifies underrepresented voices. Winning the Writer’s Digest award cemented her as a trailblazer, proving indie authors can compete with traditional publishing giants.
Chand’s stories inspire readers to embrace their uniqueness and face challenges with courage. Her legacy lies in her ability to blend heartwarming narratives with real-world issues, leaving a lasting impression on fans and aspiring writers alike.
- Born: United States, exact date unavailable
- Key Works: *Farsighted*, *Open Heart*, *Honey the Hero*, *Fall Back*
- Awards: Writer’s Digest Self-Published Novel of the Year (2012)
- Fun Fact: Her sun conure, Ducky, is the mascot of Novel Publicity!
Snag *Farsighted* or *Honey the Hero* and dive into Emlyn Chand’s heartfelt, adventurous world!