A self-published author success story: Mariana Missakian

Introducing…Mariana Missakian, author of That Suburbia Lady.

Why did you want to write a book?

I wanted to tell my story, because I couldn’t find my story anywhere.

When I became a mom, I found myself silent. Not because anyone told me to shut up or because I was waiting for permission. But because everywhere I looked, from Hollywood to Instagram to bestselling books, I couldn’t find my story.

And when I couldn’t find it, I started to believe it wasn’t real, and that it didn’t matter. Until the day I realized that power wasn’t a job and a title. Power is a voice and now I use that voice to tell my story and to invite others to share theirs.

What were you hoping your readers would get out of it?

I wanted people to know that they are not alone. Their story matters and their voice matters. Every voice has the power to change the world.

I want my readers to trust their own voice and tell their stories loudly, proudly and unapologetically.

What is your book about?

My book is a memoir about my motherhood journey. The messy truth about trading my city #bosslady stilettos for spandex leggings, PTAs and bake sales in Suburbia. Told in 40 short, coffee-fuelled stories, it reveals the raw reality of what happens when you let go of everything you fought to achieve just to “fit in”.

It’s a satirical memoir, which is an extremely rare genre. It’s me telling my story by making fun of myself. I could have written horror or comedy to tell my story, but I went with comedy.

This book will deeply resonate with you if

You are a woman. Single or married, mother or not.

If you are feeling stuck in between seasons of life, maybe losing yourself, possibly thinking, “Why me? Why only me?” or finally becoming who you were meant to be.

The impact editing had on this book

Before Leanne stepped in, what I had was a messy collection of stories and coffee stains, not a book.

She saw potential where I saw chaos. She organised my thoughts and gently guided and encouraged me towards publishing.

How has publishing your book changed your life?

Publishing my book opened doors I hadn’t imagined. It was the stepping stone of becoming who I am today.

Right after my book was published, I was featured at the Emirates Literature Festival, a huge honour considering it typically celebrates fiction writers. I also gave a TEDx talk inspired by these same stories. But the most rewarding thing has been the feedback from my readers. When someone tells me, “It felt like you were talking about my life.” It hits me every single time.

When I started writing, I said I wanted to help women and mothers avoid the pain I had to go through. And knowing that even one woman feels seen makes all the tears, pain and bleeding pen worth it. There’s nothing better, or more humbling, than knowing your story resonates deeply with someone else’s journey, and guides them through the seasons of life, back to themselves.

What Mariana’s working on at the moment

Writing is my daily coffee, therapy, and creative outlet, (especially now as I’m deep into my doctoral research I’m basically writing nonstop).

I’m also busy with The UNMUTE Project, an initiative aimed at amplifying voices and stories. I launched UNMUTE to encourage people to trust their stories, speak their truth and recognize the power of their voice.

Other than that, I’m on LinkedIn regularly initiating conversations that matter on women, leadership and inclusion. Come hang out with me there!

Stay up-to-date with Mariana’s work

You can stay in touch with Mariana on Instagram and LinkedIn. If you would like to read That Suburbia Lady, you can buy a copy here.

If you enjoyed this blog and would like to be featured in my next author success story, I want to hear from you!

I want to provide an opportunity for you to showcase your book, tell the story behind your work, and share your experience of writing, editing and publishing a book.

If you would like to apply to be featured, send me an email: leanne@inredpencil.co.nz