About
I’m an educator, poet, and author with a Master of Arts from Columbia University.
I’ve spent over a decade inspiring young writers in New York City and Miami classrooms, advancing literacy across schools, and creating safe spaces for free expression.
My achievements include Florida’s prestigious “Best and Brightest” teaching award and publications with leading organizations such as The Pulitzer Center, Teach for America, Teachers College Press, and National Council of Teachers of English.
My poetry has appeared in Gertrude Press and Gandy Dancer.
I live in Miami with my husband, always plotting our next travel adventure. I’m also active on social media and at my website: joey-oconnor.com
Frequently Asked Questions!
Favorite color:
Rainbow!!!! (…is that cheating?)
Favorite animal:
The scurrying lizards in Miami with tiny, curling tails!
Favorite reading spot as a child:
The bathtub, full of blankets & pillows — or bubbles!
When did you first start writing?
My flair for storytelling began in the 2nd grade, doodling the comedic adventures of a character named Mr. Pig, whose whimsy and wonder underpin my style to this day!
What do you like to do for fun?
Ride my bike to the beach & jump in the ocean!
Read by the pool (in a not-to-sunny spot…)
Travel to new cities & countries
Visit museums
Play hide-and-go-seek with my nephews
Go on adventures with my handsome husband!
Try different cultural foods
Wander bookstores & dream up picture books
Shake the ice in my coffee cup like a musical instrument
Write poems that do NOT follow the rulez!
Run loooooooooooong distances
Dance-twirl in the kitchen while cooking!
Watch fun Japanese anime TV shows