The Year: 1984. The impact: timeless

Teaching in the Dark chronicles my first year as a teacher in the Arctic village of Shishmaref, Alaska. The stories are funny, reflective, and poignant. They reveal the inner life of teachers everywhere: the constant doubt and confusion, mixed with hope and aspiration. My book’s primary audience is teachers, but readers from all walks of life will connect to my stories of self-exploration and trying to create relationships with people in different places and different cultures. It also has appeal for readers who love the wild quirkiness of Alaska.

Now available on Audible! Listen while you work, play, or chill out! (click here)

Now available on Audible! Listen while you work, play, or chill out! (click here)

Now available on Audible! Listen while you work, play, or chill out! (click here)

Now available on Audible! Listen while you work, play, or chill out! (click here)

Now available on Audible! Listen while you work, play, or chill out! (click here)

Now available on Audible! Listen while you work, play, or chill out! (click here)

accolades ...

A "How To" for new teachers

Best Debut Novel, Best Memoir, Best Cover

A captivating and thought-provoking read

"She brings to life a place that most of us will never visit with her lyrical appreciation of the natural environment. But it's the people she gets to know and the changes in herself as she matures and builds her confidence that are truly compelling. Whatever she's facing (and life in the Iñupiat community is tough for an Outsider) she writes with honesty, no self-pity, and great humour."

A captivating and thought-provoking read

Best Debut Novel, Best Memoir, Best Cover

A captivating and thought-provoking read

Genét Simone's heartfelt narrative, rich character development, and evocative prose make for an engaging and memorable journey. With its themes of resilience, belonging, and the power of community, this book is sure to resonant with readers of all backgrounds."

Best Debut Novel, Best Memoir, Best Cover

Best Debut Novel, Best Memoir, Best Cover

"Teaching in the Dark" has advanced to finalist

Page Turner Awards has been dubbed the 'Rolls Royce' of Writing Awards. 


Teaching in the Dark received scores in the following categories: 

Quality of Writing, Storyline Potential, and Compelling Characters, with an overall score of 8.4 out of 10 points. Excellent feedback for future publications! "Finalist" feels like a "win" for me.

"Teaching in the Dark" has advanced to finalist

"Teaching in the Dark" has advanced to finalist

"Teaching in the Dark" has advanced to finalist

Winners announced April 5, 2025


I'll be attending the Chanticleer Banquet in beautiful Bellingham, WA!

So proud of this story as it's moved up to this prestigious level. 


First Place Nonfiction, Memoir, Professional

"Teaching in the Dark" has advanced to finalist

First Place Nonfiction, Memoir, Professional

Awarded on October 26, 2024


I received notice of this award while in Juneau, Alaska, right after a book talk at the Mendenhall Valley Public Library.


Second Place Nonfiction, Memoir, Personal

"Teaching in the Dark" has advanced to finalist

First Place Nonfiction, Memoir, Professional

Awarded on October 26, 2024


I received notice of this award while in Juneau, Alaska, right after a book talk at the Mendenhall Valley Public Library.


5-STAR REVIEW!

American Book Fest™

American Book Fest™

I received a wonderful review from Xanadu Awards, which will be posted in mid-February 2025: "A highly memorable and humorous read, with a myriad of lessons."

My memoir was also entered in a book award contest. Winners announced later this year.

American Book Fest™

American Book Fest™

American Book Fest™

I entered my memoir in the 22nd Annual Best Book Awards, which will be announced later in 2025. 


Entries were open to books published  between 2020 and 2025. I thought, "Why not? Go for it!"


What's next?

American Book Fest™

What's next?

I'll continue to share "Teaching in the Dark" for years to come, and likely enter it into some future contests. 


It's such a thrill to learn how people resonate with my story and then recommend it to others. Truly humbling! I am filled with gratitude.


WELCOME Video

Introducing: Teaching in the Dark

What readers are saying ...

"A humorous, tender memoir"

"Teaching in the Dark is about a year of teaching—and personal and professional growth ... Moments of light tension trade with instances of poignancy, as when Simone recalls younger children coming to say hello and begging for snacks and entertainment. Indeed, the book’s recollections of Simone’s budding relationships with her students are its most memorable portions.

~ Allison Janicki, Clarion Review

"You're plunged right in"

"So much more than a memoir, this book propels the reader along with the author on two parallel journeys, one interior and the other geographical. 


The reader comes away with a deep appreciation of her bravery and for the open hearts of the villagers who in fact taught HER a great deal over the course of one school year. A book that will animate your mind for days after you finish it!"

~ ME, San Rafael, California

"I didn't want to put it down"

"This is an insightful look at the Iñupiat culture, a first- year teacher’s trials and joys, and amazing depth of insight into the art and significance of teaching and learning."

~ RS, Shishmaref, Alaska

"A unique book in a crowded field"

"Genét is open and transparently honest about her experiences as a first year teacher. When she is not being challenged by the harsh environment in Alaska,  Genét searches for ways to engage the indigenous students in her English classes. She shares her reflections on her lessons and constantly strives to improve and learn what works and what does not. This is not just a book for those who are interested in the teaching profession but for all of us who have faced challenges in their life. Truly a five star effort. 

~ RK, Canberra, Australia

"Compelling, Vivid"

"Teaching in the Dark, a Memoir, could be a "how to" for new teachers. Simone's passion to connect with her students in this culture so vastly different from her own was compelling. Her stories painted a vivid picture of life in the arctic regions. I was surprised to learn that this is her first book. Here's hoping she will write more in the future."  ~ Marjorie, Massachusetts 

Copyright © 2025 Genét Simone Educational Consulting - All Rights Reserved.

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