Rita Pilgrim

About the Author

Rita Pilgrim is a wife, mother, medical coding professional, and first-time children’s author whose greatest passion is helping children discover the joy of reading. Her debut book, Matthew Discovers Alphabet Planet, was inspired by one simple but life-changing goal: helping her son, Matthew, learn to read with confidence and excitement.

Growing up, Rita understood firsthand the struggles that can come with learning to read. Determined that her son would have a different experience, she transformed phonics into an imaginative adventure where letters, sounds, and learning became something to look forward to instead of something to fear. What began as a special way to teach Matthew soon grew into a dream of helping children everywhere who need a little extra encouragement.

Rita believes every child is capable of learning when given patience, creativity, and someone who believes in them. Her hope is that Matthew Discovers Alphabet Planet inspires children to see reading not as a challenge, but as an exciting journey filled with discovery.

Outside of writing, Rita has built a career in medical coding, where attention to detail and problem-solving have been part of her daily life for many years. She has been married to her husband, Chris, for more than three decades, and together they have built a life rooted in faith, perseverance, and family.

Rita’s life has been shaped by both incredible blessings and profound loss. Through every season, her faith in Jesus Christ has remained her foundation, giving her the strength to keep moving forward and the courage to pursue dreams that once seemed impossible. After keeping this story on a bookshelf for more than twenty years, she finally stepped out in faith to share it with the world.

Today, Rita’s mission is simple: to encourage children, support parents, and remind families that learning can be an adventure. She hopes this is only the beginning of many stories that will spark imagination, build confidence, and create lasting memories between parents and their children.