Spotlight on Long Island: A Late Bloomer Story
From Gardens to Giggles: Madelyn Simon’s Late Bloomer Story
On Long Island’s East End, where dunes meet dreams, Madelyn Simon has found her second act—not on a stage or in a boardroom but tucked among the leaves of her watercolor-painted pages. Retired from a flourishing landscaping career, she pivoted into children’s literature, crafting vibrant tales that sing the praises of friendship, curiosity, and the natural world.
A Shift from Terra to Tales
Simon spent decades designing and nurturing outdoor spaces, transforming yards into living artworks. After retiring in 2006, she turned her energy inward, picking up a paintbrush and a pen to explore new creative paths. The result? A series of children’s books set in the lush, imaginary Mungo Bungo Jungle, featuring Poppy the Toucan and her delightful animal friends. Her debut titles—Poppy Says, “It’s Okay, You’re Okay” and Poppy’s Favorite Friends Fiasco—offer gentle lessons wrapped in tropical charm. She’s already published five books, with a sixth ready for illustration.
Art, Advocacy, and Authenticity
Simon’s stories aren’t just fun—they reflect her deep connection to nature and her goal to inspire young readers to value friendships and the world around them. She brings that warm energy to local libraries, hosting readings in Sag Harbor and Bridgehampton that draw attentive young faces and delighted parents.
Why Her Story Matters
- Age is not a limit—it’s a launchpad. Madelyn began her bestselling journey post-retirement, igniting creativity precisely when many believe paths have narrowed.
- Nature nurtures more than gardens. Her background in landscaping infuses her storytelling with authenticity and sensory richness that resonates with readers.
- Local impact. Living part-time in Sag Harbor since 2006, she’s become a community voice—inviting children to share in her verdant worlds and spark their own.
Madelyn Simon reminds us that hearts can bloom anew at any stage, especially when rooted in passion and purpose. Her journey from sculpting gardens to crafting joined-up imaginations shows that reinvention can be as natural as turning a page. For readers over 55 wondering what’s next, she says, “Paint your sky, plant your story—and let the adventure grow.”
Andrea Peponakis
Andrea Peponakis is a retired foreign language teacher who then became a local newspaper journalist and local radio show host. Born and raised in Astoria, Queens and on Long Island, Andrea is now focusing on writing children’s books. The motivation to become an author was inspired by her three grandchildren. Her book, Grandma, Grandma, Tell Me More: My Family Loves Me, was featured at this year’s London Book Festival and at The LA Times Book Fair. Andrea currently resides on Long Island near her children and grandchildren. Her days are spent creating everlasting memories with her grandchildren and writing.
