About THE AUTHOR

Michelle Zivkov is a former elementary school teacher with a passion for mindful adventures and travel. Holding a master's degree in early childhood education with a specialization in literacy, she has years of experience as a classroom teacher and a lifelong love for children's books.

Michelle grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, where some of her fondest childhood memories include exploring nature and hiking the beautiful metroparks, as well as spending every Saturday morning at the library with her mom and sister. Her love for travel and adventure began at a young age and has remained an integral part of her life. Coming from a European family, she often spent summers overseas, and family vacations were always a top priority. After college, she spent two summers living and working in Italy while exploring more of Europe. She later completed graduate school and relocated to Tampa, Florida, where she spent many years as an elementary school teacher, teaching 2nd grade in Hillsborough County.

Always using her time off to explore the world, Michelle eventually decided to take a sabbatical and travel full-time. During this period, she became a certified yoga teacher, training in Bali and India. It was also then that her idea to write children's books first took shape, as she wanted to share her passion for adventure and learning with kids everywhere. Now based between Los Angeles, California, and Bali, Indonesia, though often found in Europe or exploring other parts of the world, Michelle has visited 48 countries and counting. She is inspired to share her love of mindfulness, travel, and adventure with children everywhere.

Recognized as an award-winning author, Michelle received a Kirkus Star and was named one of the top indie books by Kirkus Reviews for her debut children's book, Mindful Wonders: A Book About Mindfulness Using the Wonders of Nature.

Would you like to have Michelle visit your school to share her mindfulness programs? Reach out to learn more!