Her Story
About Marlene
Marlene Ratledge Buchanan is an accomplished writer, humorist, and retired educator whose work blends heartfelt insight with signature Southern wit. Based in Loganville, Georgia, she is best known for her humorous essays and cozy mysteries that celebrate the healing power of laughter. Her book, Life is Hard. Soften It with Laughter, along with her popular column “Hey Y’all” in the Gwinnett Citizen, reflects her belief that humor, storytelling, and a touch of perspective can uplift and connect people through life’s everyday challenges.
Before becoming a writer, Marlene built a distinguished career in education, beginning as an art teacher before transitioning into school counseling, where she served students for more than two decades. After retiring, she was recruited into what she describes as the “perfect job,” working with high-risk and special education students. In this role, she provided individualized support, helping students access resources such as specialized reading and math programs, and guiding graduating students toward employment or post-secondary training opportunities. Her dedication to student success and her ability to connect with individuals of all backgrounds became a defining hallmark of her professional life.
Marlene began her writing journey in 2015 after submitting a letter to the editor on education and budget issues, which led to a weekly column with the online AT&T Patch. What started as community-focused articles soon evolved into humorous observations of everyday life, gaining a loyal readership and opening doors to additional opportunities, including her ongoing work with the Gwinnett Citizen, Inspirations for Better Living, and the Snellville Historical Society. An active member of the literary community and a motivational speaker, Marlene continues to inspire audiences through her storytelling, proving that laughter remains one of life’s most powerful remedies.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Marlene
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would like to think that I helped a lot of families and a lot of children. Some were in crisis, some just needed direction. But I would like to think that I had contributed to their lives in some capacity. I still hear from those kids. It upsets me, though, when they want to show me their great-grandchildren. I went to one of their high school reunions, the very first senior class, and I was looking around at all these people that I no longer recognized. And they were coming up and saying, Miss Rat, look, this is my family, and they've got like 5 kids and 3 grandchildren.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Find what you've got a passion for, and direct your energies toward things that will support that. Don't take a job just to get paid for more money. Find something that will make you happy and will give you direction in life.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Learn how to say no with politeness. Remember you are as good as anyone else in the world, and there's nothing that can stop you from success. And find laughter in your life.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I think having trust is probably the foundation.
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