Lauren Simone Blogs

A Jamaican wife visits her Vincentian husband’s country for the first time. 

Today, I had the honor of attending the Career Everywhere Celebration at the University of Connecticut after being nominated for the Employer Alumni Career Advocate of the Year Award. While I did not receive the award, I was incredibly grateful to be recognized, reconnect with my graduate alma mater, and celebrate the many individuals committed to supporting students' career development. The event featured remarks from Nathan Fuerst, whose message reinforced the importance of creating opportunities that prepare students for meaningful careers. One of the highlights of the evening was seeing these kind words from Olivia Maffucci on the message board:...

Yesterday was one of those long, full days that leaves you tired in body but deeply energized in spirit. I had the joy of attending a community book fair that reminded me exactly why literacy work and storytelling matter so much. I arrived early to set up and drive safely since it snowed the morning. But once the parents and children arrived, the space felt alive: workshops in motion, authors proudly sharing their work, children wandering through tables of stories, and conversations about books happening everywhere. One of the most inspiring parts of the event was the incredible generosity behind...

Sometimes you receive an email that makes you pause, smile, and reflect on the journey. Recently, I had the honor of being interviewed by Aaron Miller from CanvasRebel Magazine, who ended our conversation with such kindness: “Hi Melissa-Sue! Absolutely. Was such a pleasure to learn your story, wishing you tons of continued success!” The interview process itself was thoughtful and unique. Rather than a traditional live conversation, CanvasRebel uses a written questionnaire format, allowing creators to reflect deeply and answer honestly, in their own time. That approach made the experience especially meaningful because it gave me space to truly think...

Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers’ Favorite Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be,” and in Olivia Dives In by Melissa-Sue John and Olivia Lauren John, the title character must decide who she wants to be. Olivia Lauren is a creative, hard-working girl who isn’t quite sure sports are for her. Her sister and cousins seem to shine in every endeavor, from track to gymnastics, but Olivia would rather avoid sweating and stick to what she loves. One day, her best friend talks her into trying out...