Hear Me Read and Teach at JaxbyJax, Dec 1 – 3

Hear Me Read and Teach at JaxbyJax, Dec 1 – 3

I’m honored to be included in the 10th anniversary of the JaxbyJax Literary Arts Festival, December 1 – 3, at the FSCJ Kent Campus. This year’s lineup has so much to offer in memoir and creative nonfiction as well as talented local authors in other genres like poetry, fiction, and spoken word.

Change is in the Air

Change is in the Air

My manuscript is in a holding pattern as I brave the query trenches—a situation akin to dating in which, rather than looking for a romantic partner, I’m seeking a literary agent to represent and sell my work. Here’s what I’ve been reading and writing while I wait.

Among the Wildflowers

Among the Wildflowers

I have a personal essay coming out this fall in The Banyan Review about converting my lawn into a yard with purpose. My adventures in environmentally conscious landscaping have been somewhat of an inspiration to friends. So to those of you following in my footsteps and cursing the weeds taking over your mulched beds, I feel the need to disclose a dirty secret.

Anthology of Women’s Voices

Anthology of Women’s Voices

Creativity runs in my blood. Before I took the plunge into my writing career, I watched my mom dive into her work as an artist. In our personal and creative lives, we shadow each other frequently. That’s why I’m so proud to have my latest piece published next to my mom’s artwork in the new Anthology of Women’s Voices, produced by Women Writing for a Change, Jacksonville.

Gambling on Humanity

Gambling on Humanity

Did you miss my reading at Jax by Jax? This adapted excerpt of my memoir-in-progress is the moment I thought back to when I first started questioning my sexual identity. Standing out is always a risk. Here’s the best and worst of what can happen when we go all-in.

A Taste of Success

A Taste of Success

I’m proud to announce I’ve been selected to read my work at the JaxbyJax Literary Arts Festival Saturday, October 16 at 2:30pm. Here’s how to attend and what to expect.

Uncovering Who I Am

Uncovering Who I Am

I’ve reached the point in writing memoir where moving forward requires me to ditch the metal diving suit. If discussions about sexuality and gender make you uncomfortable, now is the time to look away. My name is Melissa, and I’m questioning my sexual identity.