Kathy Kelly is a picture book author who coaxes words into stories for kids to encourage curiosity, laughter, dreaming, and connection. Her stories are full of heart and humor with just a touch of whimsy. When she’s not writing, Kathy volunteers as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for kids and enjoys travel (especially to National Parks), movies, musical theatre, board games, and any time with her family. She lives in Central PA and is a member of SCBWI, the 12 x 12 Picture Book Challenge, and Inked Voices.

Her debut picture book DEAR SQUIRREL: NOTES FROM THE NUTS YOU LEFT BEHIND will be published by Flamingo Books (Penguin Random House) in the fall of 2026. Her second picture book (also humorous, but not yet announced) is scheduled to be published in the spring of 2027.