Today when we search for the art of storytelling and empowerment, few names resonate as profoundly as Charron Monaye. A prolific author, playwright, and visionary, Charron has etched her name on the hearts of many with her dynamic and diverse body of work. From captivating children’s book series to thought-provoking stage plays, her creations are not just stories—they are powerful invitations to think, feel, and explore the realms of possibility. In an exclusive interview with FEMI Magazine, Charron Monaye shares her journey through the literary and theatrical worlds, shedding light on her creative process, inspirations, and the life lessons that have shaped her remarkable career. Join us as we delve into the mind of a creator who builds worlds with words and empowers others to do the same.
Can you share the inspiration behind your children’s book series, “The Adventures of Michelle”?
The Adventures of Michelle was never supposed to extend beyond the first book, Michelle and Her Magical Pen, which was released on November 4, 2020. Honestly, during COVID, I was searching for a new storyline to explore since I felt like I had run out of life experiences to draw from. At that time, I had nothing inspirational or self-help-oriented to create. Then, one day, one of my authors sent me the files for his children’s book for distribution. After seeing the illustrations and reading the story, I immediately thought, “I want to do that too.” Without hesitation, he connected me with his illustrator, India Sheana, and from there, it was on.
This children’s series starring Michelle became an incredible way to introduce kids to travel, foreign languages, entrepreneurship, politics, history, and the importance of unlocking their passions to reach their full potential. With vibrant illustrations and engaging facts, each story encourages young readers to believe in themselves, be curious about learning new things, and have faith in their ability to achieve whatever their hearts desire. I firmly believe that one of the greatest gifts you can give a child is to nurture their imagination, self-esteem, and curiosity.
When Michelle and Her Magical Pen was released, the feedback was overwhelming. It inspired me to start writing more storylines, which naturally evolved into more books. Titles like Imagine Life Without African American Inventors, Michelle Goes to Congress, Michelle Goes to Paris, Michelle Opens Her First Bank Account, Michelle Sold Zero Books, Michelle Goes to the Beach, Michelle Goes to an HBCU, Marquis Goes to the Supreme Court, and The Adventures of Michelle Activity Book followed, along with the “Reading is Fun” beach towel. Each addition to the series continues to build on the message of self-belief, exploration, and limitless potential for children everywhere. You can shop The Adventures of Michelle story on her website or Amazon, Barnes N Noble, Walmart, Target, or just by a quick web search.
Over your career, you’ve received numerous accolades. Which award or recognition do you hold most dear, and why?
Being a mother to two amazing sons, Christopher and Craig, is the greatest award and privilege of my life. While the inductions, accolades, recognition and awards I’ve received are deeply appreciated and hold a special place in my heart, there is nothing that compares to the fulfillment and pride I feel in nurturing and guiding my children. For me, the true essence of life lies in the ability to impact and shape the lives of the people we love. My greatest accomplishments are not measured by the awards on the shelf, but by the love, compassion, and values I instill in Christopher and Craig. Watching them grow into kind, thoughtful, and resilient young men, who have the potential to not only make the world a better place but also find their own path to greatness, is the most rewarding experience.
In every lesson I teach and every hug I give, I see the seeds of a better future being planted. My heart swells with pride as I witness my young men embody the principles of growth, passion, integrity, and perseverance. To me, this is the greatest legacy I can leave behind –being a mother to children who are not only prepared to navigate the complexities of the world but are also equipped to contribute positively to it.
Your stage play “Get Out of Your Own Way” has been performed in notable places like Hollywood and Off-Broadway. What challenges did you face when bringing this play to such prestigious stages?
“Get Out of Your Own Way” was truly a process. I originally penned “Get Out of Your Own Way” in 2013, but like many projects, I put it down. I had a table read and a public reading, but then I was hired to write either a book or a script for someone else, and the play was set aside again. My journey of bringing it to life—writing it in 2013, rewriting it in 2017, producing its premiere in California in 2018, staging encore shows in January 2019, and transporting the California cast and crew to New York in May 2019—all while living in Philadelphia, being a single mom of two, and working a federal job.
Many have asked how I managed to produce a play in California while living in Philadelphia, and my answer is always the same—God. To be honest, I didn’t face many any challenges with this play. I pray before and during every project I commit to, and this time was no different. I also hired the best director, someone who truly understands my standard of excellence and expectations. She handled everything with precision. Every need we had, God provided for, and any hurdle we encountered was resolved before it could escalate. This play was not only the easiest one I’ve done but also my best to date. It’s important to note that I funded all seven California productions entirely out of my own pocket, with no investors or theater partners. I took a huge leap of faith—and it paid off!
You’ve managed to author over twenty-six books across six different genres. How do you navigate the creative process across such diverse fields?
Navigating the creative process across six different genres can be both a challenge and a thrill. For me, it starts with understanding that each genre demands its own unique rhythm, voice, and flexibility—allowing myself to shift perspectives without getting too attached to a single style. I approach every project with fresh eyes and experience, which keeps the creative spark alive.
At the core of my process is staying deeply connected to my purpose for writing. Whether it’s self-help, non-fiction, my children’s book series The Adventure of Michalle or even a stage play, I ground myself in the message I want to convey and let that guide my direction. My experiences in various roles—whether personal, professional, or observational—fuel my ability to draw from different emotional and intellectual elements. It’s about listening to each story as it wants to be told, not forcing it into a mold. Most importantly, I keep an open mind and let my pen guide the journey, trusting that the right direction will always reveal itself.
As a founder of Pen Legacy & CM Writes, what core principle drives your mission to elevate voices in the literary community?
The core principle that drives my mission through Pen Legacy and CM Writes is empowerment—empowering individuals to tell their stories, share their truths, and reclaim their voices. I believe that everyone has a story that deserves to be heard, and far too often, powerful voices are silenced by fear, doubt, or lack of resources. My purpose is to break down those barriers and provide a company for people to express themselves unapologetically. I’m deeply passionate about fostering representation, especially for those who feel marginalized or unseen. Whether someone is writing their first book or building a legacy, my mission is to ensure they know their voice matters. There’s a profound beauty in guiding someone from the seed of an idea to holding their finished book in their hands—watching them realize the power they hold. It’s a ripple effect; by elevating one voice, we inspire countless others to stand up and speak out.
Every time I see a new author take that leap of faith, I’m reminded of why I started this journey—to create a legacy of storytelling that transcends boundaries and builds lasting impact. Empowering others isn’t just a goal; it’s a calling. And through Pen Legacy and CM Writes, I’m here to make sure those stories reach the world.
Working as a ghostwriter and a partner to many high-profile figures, how do you maintain your creative voice while writing in someone else’s style?
Maintaining my creative voice while writing in someone else’s style is a delicate balancing act, but it’s one that I’ve learned to master over time. The key is in understanding that every person has a unique rhythm, a signature way of telling their story, and my job as a ghostwriter is to channel that voice authentically while still allowing my creative instincts to guide the process.
I immerse myself in their world—listening to their words, following their life on social media, paying attention to the way they express emotions, and understanding their values and motivations. Once I’ve captured that essence, my role becomes about elevating their narrative, ensuring it flows with persona and impact. While I’m writing for them, my voice doesn’t disappear; it becomes the foundation that strengthens theirs. It’s almost like being a master sculptor, shaping their ideas into something refined and polished, without losing the rawness that makes it theirs.
I often tell people that ghostwriting is a lot like acting. When an actor prepares for a role, they dive deep into the character’s backstory, observe how they speak, react, and move, until they fully embody them. Have you ever watched a movie where the actor was so convincing that you started seeing them as the character they portrayed? That level of immersion is what makes the performance believable. The actors don’t disappear, but their ability to channel someone else is what drives the success of the film. For me, that’s what ghostwriting is—stepping into someone else’s world and telling their story as if they’re the ones speaking. It’s not about overshadowing their voice but amplifying it. That’s the true art of ghostwriting: letting their truth shine, while my craftsmanship quietly elevates each word.
Your work in theater and book writing is extensive. Who has been your most influential mentor in this area, and what was the most valuable lesson you learned from them?
Oh my, I’ve had so many incredible mentors along the way. Dr. Syleecia Thompson, the sister of Syleena Johnson, was my first mentor and coach in this business. She taught me how to become the writer and businesswoman I am today. From understanding the ins and outs of business to mastering marketing, she laid the foundation for everything you’ve seen and will continue to see from me. Another person who profoundly impacted my journey is television producer, screenwriter, and founder of the production company Shondaland, Shonda Rhimes. Taking her Writing for Television course completely transformed how I approach scriptwriting. She reminded me that writing, like music, is universal: “You don’t have to write just one thing, but you do have to write one thing well.” That woman is incredible. Victoria Christopher Murray, New York Times bestselling and NAACP Image Award-winning author, is another mentor who shaped my craft. She taught me the concept of “vomiting on the page,” which means getting everything out in a raw draft before going back to refine it. As writers, we often want to edit as we write or aim for perfection on the first draft, but she emphasized that the focus should be on simply getting the story out. Her advice has been invaluable.
I carry so many gems from my mentors—past and present—and if you’re reading this and don’t have a mentor or coach, I can’t stress enough how important it is to get one. They can be the key to unlocking your potential.
Serving on the NAACP Image Awards literature nominating committee, what do you believe is the impact of such awards on promoting diversity in literature?
Serving on the NAACP Image Awards literature nominating committee was a profound experience that reinforced the undeniable impact these awards have on promoting diversity in literature. These awards do more than just celebrate talent; they shine a spotlight on voices that are often overlooked or marginalized by mainstream publishing. By elevating stories from Black authors, including myself, the NAACP Image Awards send a powerful message—that our stories matter, that they’re worthy of being heard, celebrated, and shared on a global scale.
The visibility these awards provide can be life-changing for authors, opening doors that may have previously been closed. But beyond individual recognition, they play a critical role in shifting cultural narratives. When we promote diverse literature, we foster empathy, understanding, and a more inclusive literary landscape. Readers from all backgrounds get to experience stories that reflect a wider array of human experiences, and that broadens the scope of what literature can be.
When readers see themselves in stories, and when the world at large embraces those stories, that’s when real progress happens. That’s the impact of the NAACP Image Awards—they elevate diverse voices, while shaping the future of literature itself.
With a BA in Political Science, Certificate in Paralegal Studies and Masters in Public Administration, how have these degrees influenced your writing and professional career in the entertainment industry.
Wow, great question—you definitely did your research! I’ll tell anyone that knowing law and government will add immense value to your professional career, no matter the industry. Understanding the laws behind contracts and intellectual property can protect you from having your content, likeness, name, image, or brand stolen. With my degrees and background as a paralegal, and working, fifteen plus, for the federal government, I’m well-versed in legal rights, state and federal laws, and most importantly, the Constitution. That knowledge makes it difficult for anyone to take advantage of me. They may talk business, but I only listen to what’s legit and legal. Do you know how much BS and time that’s saved me?
As for how my degrees have influenced my writing, they actually didn’t. Writing for me started as a hobby, and life eventually turned it into a business. Making my writing a profession was never the plan. I had no intention of monetizing my pen, but as the saying goes, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.” However, my legal background has definitely shaped how I write for entertainment. I write with facts, depth, research, and a clear, straightforward approach. I’ve also learned to balance that with a fun and relatable tone. My books aren’t textbook driven, but they are designed to either educate or entertain, which is why fiction can be tough for me. Creating detailed stories and weaving fictional elements doesn’t come as naturally. My imagination is vast, but my writing flows more like a legal brief or a document prepared for trial. You won’t get a lot of fluff from me—I’m all about substance.
As a role model to many, what advice would you give to aspiring writers and playwrights who wish to follow in your footsteps?
The most important advice I can give is to honor your voice and stay true to your vision. The world is filled with trends, opinions, and noise, but your authenticity is what will set you apart. Write from a place of truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s in those vulnerable spaces that the most powerful stories are born. Understand that this journey will require resilience. There will be rejections, self-doubt, and obstacles that may make you question your path. But the key is to keep going, even when it feels like no one is watching or listening. The greatest breakthroughs often come right after the moments you wanted to give up. Trust the process, even when the outcome isn’t clear.
Also, never stop learning. Sharpen your craft, study the greats, and constantly seek out opportunities to improve. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. And remember, collaboration is just as important as creativity. Whether you’re writing a book, a play, or a script, it’s the relationships you build along the way that will elevate your work to new heights.
Lastly, don’t wait for permission. Create your own opportunities. If the doors aren’t opening for you, build your own. That’s how I got to where I am—I refused to let anyone or anything dictate my path. Take risks, bet on yourself, and most importantly, write with purpose. Your words have the power to impact lives, and when you understand that there’s nothing you can’t achieve.
What’s up next for you?
Right now, I’m immersed in a multitude of exciting projects with some incredible collaborators. I’m developing three feature films scripts with TV/Film producer Ty Johnston-Chavis, which has been an exhilarating creative journey. In addition, I’m dedicated to helping aspiring writers through my company, Pen Legacy Publishing. As a book publisher, I assist individuals in getting their stories published and into the marketplace across six continents. I’m also gearing up for some international work, so there’s a lot on the horizon. On a personal note, my youngest son is a high school senior, adding another layer of excitement and anticipation to my life.
To stay updated with my latest endeavors, visit www.charronmonaye.com or follow me on Instagram at @iamcharronmonaye
Charron’s inspiring journey and insights are so motivational. It’s evident that her passion and dedication have not only paved a unique path for her but have also opened doors for many others in the literary and entertainment fields. We’re excited to see her upcoming projects unfold and wish her continued success in all her endeavors. Readers can follow her work and updates on her website and social media. Charron is truly empowering and elevating voices through your remarkable career, and we love that for her.
