Mona Simpson, born on June 14, 1957, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is an accomplished American novelist known for her insightful works that often draw from her own life experiences. Here is an overview of her life, career, and connections to the late Apple co-founder, Steve Jobs.
Early Life and Adoption:
Mona Jandali, born to Joanne Carole Schieble and Abdulfattah “John” Jandali, experienced a unique family history. Born after her parents had married, she was placed for adoption when her mother faced opposition due to their unmarried status. Mona’s mother later married George Simpson, and Mona took on the Simpson name after their divorce. Raised by her mother in Los Angeles, Mona had an unconventional journey through childhood.
Educational Pursuits and Career Beginnings:
Simpson described herself as a good student with a penchant for humor. She attended Beverly Hills High School, received a scholarship to the University of California, Berkeley, and later pursued graduate studies at Columbia University, earning her M.F.A. While at Columbia, she worked as an editor for the prestigious Paris Review, showcasing her early literary inclinations.
Reconnection with Steve Jobs:
In 1986, Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, reached out to Mona and revealed their familial connection. Jobs had been given up for adoption by their mother, Joanne Schieble. The reunion between Mona and Steve sparked a close friendship, leading them to locate their biological father, Abdulfattah Jandali, in Sacramento. These experiences became a basis for Mona’s novels, including “The Lost Father” and “A Regular Guy.”
Literary Achievements:
Mona Simpson’s novels often draw from her personal experiences, exploring themes such as family dynamics and American mythologies. Her debut novel, “Anywhere But Here” (1986), won a Whiting Award and was adapted into a film in 1999. Other notable works include “The Lost Father” (1992) and “Off Keck Road” (2000), which received critical acclaim and awards.
Teaching and Personal Life:
In 2001, Simpson began teaching creative writing at UCLA and also held a position at Bard College in New York. Her novels, reflecting her keen observations of life, have been praised for their depth and resonance. Simpson was married to television writer and producer Richard Appel, known for his work on “The Simpsons,” and they had two children before their divorce.
Mona Simpson’s literary contributions, coupled with her unique family story, add layers of depth to her novels. From her early years to the complexities of family relationships, Simpson’s works continue to captivate readers with their authenticity and profound insights into the human experience.