Interview with Melissa Simonye, Author of Surviving Southwood: A Story of Family Secrets and Resilience

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Surviving Southwood Avenue: A Story of Family Secrets and Resilience?

The story behind the story is my grandmother’s story, and she inspired me to write her narrative. My book Surviving Southwood Avenue dramatizes her harrowing childhood, telling a riveting, true story about losing trust and gaining wisdom. It’s a heart-wrenching, inspiring story of strength and perseverance based on my grandmother’s extraordinary life experiences in Columbus, Ohio.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Surviving Southwood Avenue: A Story of Family Secrets and Resilience, what would they be?

“Unstoppable” by Sia and “This Woman’s Work” by Kate Bush.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genres to read and write are fiction (mystery/thriller, suspense) and biographical and historical fiction.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Women by Kristin Hannah, Listen for The Lie by Amy Tintura, Verity by Colleen Hoover, and Ask For Andrea by Noelle Ihli.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The scene in my book that was my favorite to write is in chapter 19 when the main character and her family take a tour of the boarding house they are to live in for the first time.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I tend to write in the middle of the night when my pets and family are sleeping, and I cannot be disturbed.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I would like readers to remember that this story is about courage, hope, and love in the face of cruelty. It’s a testament to the strength and perseverance of human character and how one person can inspire others not to give up on life and move past their trauma.

Melissa Simonye is the author of the new book Surviving Southwood Avenue: A Story of Family Secrets and Resilience

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