
Melko’s books.
SEYMOUR — When it comes to helping kids find the courage to experience new things such as swimming, going to the dentist or getting a haircut, local author Katie Melko has the write stuff.
Melko, 32, just launched the third book in her self-published ‘Paws Elementary’ series of children’s books. She speaks to young readers about new experiences in a way that offers comfort, and helps kids conquer their fears.
The 2005 graduate of Seymour High School released her first two books last year. “Roxy’s Adventure to the School Dentist” and “Roxy’s Adventure to the Hair Salon” were created and named in memory of Melko’s beloved, four-legged best friend, Roxy, who she lost to cancer.
In the latest literary adventure, one of Roxy’s best friends, Astoria the Cat, is ready to try something new in “Astoria Learns to Swim.” The main character is named after Melko’s cousin’s cat. Astoria is invited to a pool party. She’s nervous because she doesn’t know how to swim, so she takes lessons.
“Astoria was created to give children the courage to try new things even if they are scared or nervous,” Melko said. “She is a fun, loving and caring friend in the series, while being courageous and compassionate.”
Astoria’s twin brother, Jax the Cat, makes his debut in the new book. And debuting next year, Melko will introduce a new character, Luna, whose focus will be about creating new things.

Contributed Photo
Katie Melko with Husband James and dogs Noel and Mason.
Melko, a dental hygienist by trade but writer at heart, originally wrote the main characters in her first book as people. She had a change of heart and turned them into cats and dogs in honor of Roxy. She said Roxy — her first “fur child” — was her faithful companion through 10 years of schooling, marriage and three different moves.
Melko hopes to reach and inspire kids everywhere that it’s okay to be scared about new things, and with her books, she helps kids navigate those fears.
One of Melko’s fans from New Jersey, Christina Pellegrino, said she plans to incorporate the books into her volunteer work. She reads to children in the hospital, accompanied by her therapy dog, Buster.
“The Paw Elementary series is truly something special,” Pellegrino said. “Being a huge mental health advocate and having plenty of years under my belt dealing with crippling anxiety and fear, this series really spoke to me. Tackling fears the earlier on in life the better. We are so absorbent as young children, taking in the world around us, and understanding what it’s all about. A young child who develops confidence in themselves is going to grow into an adult with more confidence.”
In addition to the stuffed animals created to coordinate with the line of books, Melko also created a line of pins, stickers and encouragement cards, which drives the message home that the books aren’t just about fears of firsts.
“They are for every visit to help softly reintroduce (kids) what they are about to experience every time and to remind them that it’s okay to be nervous,” Melko said. “Some kids only swim in the summertime, kids go to the dentist every six months and haircuts for girls are a long time in between. I want Paw Elementary to be a part of new experiences, where the child is excited to take Astoria or Roxy with them to their visit.”
Melko’s books are illustrated by Roksana Oslizlo, which have received numerous awards and accolades for their colorful and whimsical cover art.
For more information about Melko or to purchase one of her books visit her website at https://www.katiemelko.com/shop