Picture a storyteller who spins tales of quirky small-town heroes with hearts as big as an Italian feast—meet Christine Simon! This debut novelist burst onto the scene with her hilarious and heartwarming 'The Patron Saint of Second Chances,' a story that captures the chaotic charm of a tiny Italian village. With a knack for blending slapstick humor and deep human connection, Simon’s work is like a warm hug from your loudest, most lovable relative.
The Making of Christine Simon
Born into a boisterous Italian-American family, Christine Simon grew up surrounded by the kind of lively chaos that fuels her storytelling. Her large, loud household was a masterclass in character development—every family gathering a sitcom waiting to happen. Before picking up the pen, Simon taught high school English and second grade, honing her ability to connect with diverse audiences. These experiences, paired with her love for everyday underdogs, shaped her path to writing fiction that celebrates the extraordinary in the ordinary.
Christine Simon’s Unforgettable Stories
Simon’s debut novel, 'The Patron Saint of Second Chances' (2022), is a comedic gem set in Prometto, Italy, a crumbling village of 212 souls. Vacuum repairman and self-appointed mayor Signor Speranza concocts a wild rumor that movie star Dante Rinaldi is filming nearby to save the town’s pipes. The plan spirals into a farcical film production, complete with a butcher’s 15 sons and a lovesick assistant’s screenplay. Critics, including Booklist and Publishers Weekly, praised its Fredrik Backman-esque heart and wit, calling it a 'triumphant farce.' Simon’s style is cinematic, with vivid characters and dialogue that pops like a well-timed punchline.
While 'The Patron Saint of Second Chances' remains her flagship work, Simon has teased other projects, including 'The Patron Saint of Motion Pictures and Vacuum Cleaner Repair.' Her stories lean on themes of community, hope, and the absurd lengths we go for those we love. Drawing from her teaching days and Italian roots, Simon crafts narratives that feel like a sunny Italian piazza—bustling, warm, and just a little chaotic.
Why Christine Simon Matters
In a world often heavy with headlines, Simon’s fiction is a breath of fresh air, reminding readers of the power of laughter and togetherness. Her debut has resonated with book clubs and fans of feel-good fiction, earning spots on lists like the RUSA 2023 Listen List for its stellar audiobook narration. By championing underdogs and small-town quirks, Simon invites us to find joy in life’s imperfections, making her a rising star in contemporary humor.
- Lives with her husband and four children, likely drawing endless inspiration from family life.
- Published her debut novel, 'The Patron Saint of Second Chances,' in April 2022.
- Former teacher of high school English and second grade, bringing a educator’s empathy to her characters.
About Christine Simon
Ready to laugh out loud and fall in love with Prometto’s ragtag crew? Snag 'The Patron Saint of Second Chances' and dive into Christine Simon’s delightful world of humor and heart!