Virtual Read-Aloud There’s something so special about connecting with students through virtual read-alouds—no matter the distance. I’ve had the joy of hosting several already, and I’m excited to offer free virtual read-alouds through June 2026! If you’d like to bring A Family Full of Love to your classroom, feel free to reach out - melissa@melissaprincebarry.com!	School Visits Each school visit has been such a meaningful experience—reading, connecting, and sharing stories with students never gets old. I’m so thankful for every classroom that’s welcomed me so far. If you’re interested in bringing me to your school, don’t hesitate to reach out - melissa@melissaprincebarry.com !	NJASL - Keynote Speaker 5/3/25 - I was honored to be the keynote speaker at the NJASL Spring Conference at TCNJ. I shared my journey as a new author and the heart behind my debut children’s book A Family Full of Love, inspired by my Black & Asian family and the importance of representation. I spoke about the powerful role school librarians play—championing diverse stories, creating safe spaces, and nurturing young readers. Thank you NJASL for supporting authors & building lifelong learners.
E Pluribus Unum Project Conference 10/8/25 - I had the honor of attending the E Pluribus Unum Project’s 3rd Annual Pluralistic Education Conference at Princeton U. — and exhibiting my book. Being surrounded by K-12 educators, school leaders, and researchers committed to this work was incredibly empowering. The conversations were deep & necessary — from brave classroom dialogue to Black and Asian American history, & LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Thank you E Pluribus Unum Project (@theepuprojectinc) for such a transformative experience.	DEI Event At Peloton 12/17/24 - Peloton’s DEI team (where I’ve worked since 2021) hosted a book reading, lunch, and discussion for A Family Full of Love. Huge thank you to @matthieuslayedit and everyone who joined! While signing books, I met someone with a Black & Asian family who shared that his children will now have a story where they can see themselves. Moments like this remind me exactly why I wrote this book.	San Diego 4/19/25 - On a beautiful Saturday in sunny San Diego, I spent the day meeting families at the @freefamilybookswap event at @friendsofphrlibrary—one of the most beautiful libraries I’ve visited! Huge thank you to @freefamilybookswap & @exploretonap—it was a joy to collaborate! Grateful for every smile and shared moment of book joy. Watching kids light up seeing themselves in A Family Full of Love reminded me why I do this. Thank you, San Diego, for the sunshine and warm welcome!
Q&A Event At Sony Music 2/5/25 - It was so special returning to Sony Music last week for a Q&A and book signing—four years after leaving. After 17+ years there, being back with my Sony family felt like coming home. I shared the story behind my book, my journey, and the experience of raising biracial children, along with how literature can support these conversations. It was wonderful reconnecting with old friends and meeting new faces. Thank you to everyone who made this event so meaningful!	Time Square Billboard 12/8/24 - Seeing my book displayed in the heart of Times Square during the holidays was such a surreal and joyful moment. Surrounded by the energy of the city, it meant even more to share the experience with my family and friends. Their love and support made the moment unforgettable—and a beautiful reminder of how far this journey has come.