Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
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.
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.