nina simon

I'm a writer, cultural activist, and curious person.Right now, I'm most excited about my new novel, MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT, which is coming out September 5, 2023 from William Morrow.

This site has information about my writing, cultural work, upcoming events, and how to get in touch with me.For a more personal update on what I'm learning and exploring, check out my newsletter, From Nina With Love.

new book alert

Mother-Daughter Murder Night is a murder mystery, a family story, and a love letter to strong women.It will be released September 5, 2023 by William Morrow, and it is available for pre-order now.I never expected to write a novel, but when my mom got diagnosed with advanced cancer in 2020, it prompted me to radically change my priorities. I wrote Mother-Daughter Murder Night as a way to connect with my mom during a tough time. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought us.

Cultural Work & Writing

I spent twenty years as an exhibit designer, museum director, nonprofit CEO, and advocate for community participation in the arts.While I am currently focusing on writing and caregiving, I still do a bit of consulting, keynote speaking, and mentoring in the cultural sector. I especially enjoy supporting changemaking CEOs.And even though my attention has shifted, the work persists. Check out my nonfiction books, related videos, and articles at the links below.Looking for a formal bio, headshots, or publicist info? Click here.

Upcoming Events

Israel

May 15-21, 2023I'm giving a series of talks and workshops in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Ramat in partnership with the US Embassy. Contact me to learn more.

Jewish Book Council

May 23, 2023I'm giving a short virtual presentation about Mother-Daughter Murder Night to representatives of Jewish organizations across the US.

Bouchercon

Aug 30-Sep 3, 2023I'm participating in the annual convention of mystery writers and fans, this year in San Diego, CA.

Let's connect

My life is enriched by incredible colleagues, collaborators, friends, and co-conspirators all over the world.Join my newsletter for a personal, thoughtful hello a couple times per year, or check out the links below to connect in other ways.

Nina Simon: bios and headshots

Hello! Everything you find on this page can be used to promote events, projects, or media we are doing together. If you want to make any changes, or you need something different, please email me.Jump to:
- Bios
- High-res headshots
- Cover art (all books)
- Agent & publicist info

Nina Simon Bio - Cultural Advocate

Nina Simon is an author and arts advocate who has been described as a “museum visionary” by Smithsonian Magazine for her community-based approach to design. She has wide-ranging experience as a former NASA engineer, exhibit designer, museum director, and founder of OF/BY/FOR ALL, a global nonprofit that helps civic and cultural organizations become more inclusive, relevant, and sustainable.Nina is the best-selling author of The Participatory Museum (2010) and The Art of Relevance (2016). Her first novel, Mother-Daughter Murder Night, will be released by William Morrow in September 2023. Nina lives off the grid in the Santa Cruz mountains with her family.

Nina Simon Bio - Fiction Writer

Nina Simon has worn many hats: NASA engineer, slam poet, game designer, museum director, and nonprofit CEO. Her work on community participation in museums, libraries, parks, and theaters has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, NPR, and the TEDx stage.Mother-Daughter Murder Night is Nina’s first novel. She wrote it as a love letter to her mother, as a way to entertain, comfort, and connect with her during a major health crisis. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nina now lives off-the-grid in the Santa Cruz Mountains. More information can be found on her website, ninaksimon.com.

Nina Simon - Headshots

Click one of the images below to download a high-resolution version in portrait, square, or landscape orientation.Photo credit: Crystal Birns

Nina Simon - Cover Art

Click any of the images below to download.

Agent & Publicist Information

For inquires related to Mother-Daughter Murder Night:Publicity: Danielle.Bartlett@harpercollins.com, Kathleen@KathleenCarterCommunications.comLiterary agent: Stefanie Lieberman at Janklow & NesbitFilm & TV rights: Hilary Zaitz Michael and Nicole Weinroth at WME
For inquiries related to culture work, The Art of Relevance, and The Participatory Museum, contact Nina Simon at ninaksimon@gmail.com