Nicole M. Hewitt is a middle-grade author living in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, three grown kids, and three overly enthusiastic pups. She hates to run, but she succeeded in finishing a marathon in 2022 (it was for a good cause!). She enjoys nature but doesn't see nearly enough of it in Illinois, so her family travels to national parks as often as possible. She also loves to sing and can often be heard spontaneously composing incredibly profound songs about the fluffiest members of her family (the dogs, in case you weren't sure). The Song of Orphan's Garden is her debut novel.
"Praise for The Song of Orphan's Garden: ""A lyrical fantasy reminiscent of C.S. Lewis, The Song of Orphan's Garden takes readers on a riveting journey to explore the perils of preconceptions and the power of friendship. A one-of-a-kind verse novel sure to entrance readers of all ages."" --Megan E. Freeman, New York Times-bestselling author of Alone ""In skillfully crafted verse, The Song of Orphan's Garden sings to the reader in beautiful harmony about unexpected courage, impossible friendships, and the magic inside us all ... A beautifully written, lyrical adventure for the soul."" --Chris Baron, author of Sydney Taylor Notable Book The Magical Imperfect ""This bold fantasy novel-in-verse feels both classic and entirely fresh, telling a rich and compelling story of two very different kids who find community and healing in unsuspected places. Inventive, exciting, and simply lovely."" --Anne Ursu, author of Not Quite a Ghost"