Picture an American storyteller who spun tales so vivid they brought the childhood of a literary legend to life—meet T.R. Simon! As a celebrated children’s author, Simon has enchanted young readers with her Zora and Me series, a heartfelt fictionalization of Zora Neale Hurston’s early years. With a knack for blending historical fiction, cultural depth, and coming-of-age adventures, she’s earned accolades like the prestigious Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award for New Talent, cementing her as a vibrant voice in children’s literature.
Simon’s stories don’t just entertain—they spark curiosity and celebrate African American heritage, inviting readers into worlds where imagination and history collide. Ready to dive into her journey? Let’s explore the life, works, and legacy of this remarkable author!
The Making of T.R. Simon
T.R. Simon, also known as Tanya Simon, grew up with a passion for stories that reflect cultural richness and human resilience. Holding an M.A. in cultural anthropology, she brings a scholar’s eye to her storytelling, weaving narratives that honor history and identity. Simon’s career took flight when she teamed up with Victoria Bond to co-author Zora and Me, a project inspired by the vibrant life of Zora Neale Hurston. Her academic background and love for children’s literature converged, leading her to teach at the City University of New York’s Publishing Certificate Program, where she inspires the next generation of writers.
T.R. Simon’s Unforgettable Stories
Simon’s signature work, the Zora and Me series, is a love letter to Zora Neale Hurston’s childhood in Eatonville, Florida, one of America’s first incorporated Black townships. The first book, Zora and Me (2010), co-authored with Victoria Bond, follows young Zora and her friend Carrie as they unravel mysteries sparked by Zora’s tall tales, like a shape-shifting gator man. This debut won the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award for New Talent in 2011 and was nominated for an Edgar Award, praised for its lyrical prose and vivid portrayal of African American life during the Jim Crow era.
The series continues with Zora and Me: The Cursed Ground (2018), a Junior Library Guild selection that delves into the lingering effects of slavery through the story of an enslaved girl named Lucia. With starred reviews from Kirkus and School Library Journal, it’s a powerful exploration of collective memory and justice. Simon also co-wrote Oskar and the Eight Blessings (2015) with her husband, Richard Simon, and illustrator Mark Siegel, a National Jewish Book Award winner that follows a young Jewish refugee’s journey through 1930s New York. Her writing style—rich, evocative, and layered with cultural nuance—makes history accessible and engaging for young readers.
Simon’s stories shine for their ability to balance wonder and harsh realities. Whether it’s Zora’s imaginative adventures or the quiet courage of a refugee, her narratives celebrate community, resilience, and the power of storytelling itself.
Why T.R. Simon Matters
T.R. Simon’s impact lies in her ability to make history feel alive and relevant for young readers. By fictionalizing Zora Neale Hurston’s childhood, she introduces a literary giant to new generations, while her focus on African American culture and universal themes like friendship and justice resonates deeply. Her work has been endorsed by the Zora Neale Hurston Trust, a rare honor, and her awards highlight her role as a trailblazer in children’s literature. Simon’s stories empower readers to embrace their heritage and question the world around them, leaving a lasting mark on the genre.
- Birthplace: United States
- Key Works: Zora and Me, Zora and Me: The Cursed Ground, Oskar and the Eight Blessings
- Awards: Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award (2011), National Jewish Book Award (2015)
- Fun Fact: Simon lives in Westchester County, New York, with her family.
Snag Zora and Me and dive into T.R. Simon’s captivating world of history, heart, and adventure!