Picture a Colombian American storyteller weaving family drama with telenovela flair—meet Melissa Mogollon! This vibrant author burst onto the literary scene with her debut novel, Oye, a heartfelt coming-of-age tale that captures the chaos and love of a Latinx household. With her rootsස්ති, Melissa’s unique storytelling, blending humor and raw emotion, has made her a rising star in contemporary fiction.
As a high school educator and writer, Melissa balances her passion for teaching with crafting stories that resonate deeply. Her work, rich with cultural insights, celebrates queer Latina voices and explores generational trauma, making her a vital voice in modern literature.
The Making of Melissa Mogollon
Born in Colombia and raised in Florida, Melissa Mogollon’s journey to authorship was shaped by her bicultural roots. She earned a BA from George Washington University, where her poem 'Salon' won the Student Poetry Prize in 2014, hinting at her literary promise. Later, she honed her craft at the prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop, earning an MFA in fiction. Her early career included teaching at St. George’s School in Rhode Island, where she also serves as Assistant Director of Equity and Inclusion, reflecting her commitment to community and diversity.
Melissa’s writing draws from her Colombian heritage and South Florida upbringing, infusing her stories with vibrant characters and authentic family dynamics. Her time in Los Angeles, dedicated to writing Oye full-time, marked a pivotal chapter before she returned to teaching, blending her dual passions.
Melissa Mogollon’s Unforgettable Stories
Melissa’s debut novel, Oye (2024), is a tour de force, unfolding through one-sided phone conversations between Luciana, a queer Colombian American teen, and her sister Mari. Set against the backdrop of Hurricane Irma in 2017, the novel blends comedy, drama, and family saga. Luciana’s brash voice navigates her role as caretaker for her grandmother, Abue, while uncovering family secrets. Critics praise its innovative structure and tender exploration of intergenerational love.
Beyond Oye, Melissa has contributed to publications like Oceana Canada, writing on marine conservation, showcasing her versatility. Her upcoming second novel, inspired by her teaching experience, promises a mystery about a missing boarding school teacher, hinting at more personal and inventive storytelling to come.
Melissa’s style is marked by humor, emotional depth, and cultural critique. She tackles themes like sexism, homophobia, and classism within Latinx communities, weaving them into narratives that feel both universal and specific. Her characters—fierce, funny, and flawed—leap off the page, inviting readers into their messy, beautiful lives.
Why Melissa Mogollon Matters
Melissa Mogollon’s work amplifies underrepresented voices, particularly queer Latinas and first-generation Americans. Oye challenges cultural taboos and breaks generational cycles, offering a fresh perspective on identity and resilience. Her ability to balance humor with heavy themes has earned her acclaim, with reviewers calling her debut 'hilarious, heart-wrenching, and brilliant.' As an educator, she inspires young writers, fostering creativity and inclusion.
Her impact extends beyond literature, as she bridges cultural gaps and sparks conversations about family, queerness, and heritage. Melissa’s stories remind us that even in chaos, love and laughter can light the way, cementing her place as a vital voice in contemporary fiction.
About Melissa Mogollon
- Birthplace: Colombia; raised in Florida
- Key Work: Oye (2024)
- Education: MFA, Iowa Writers’ Workshop; BA, George Washington University
- Awards: 2014 Student Poetry Prize for 'Salon'
Snag Oye and dive into Melissa Mogollon’s vibrant world of family, humor, and heart!