Local author Lia Habel came to the Ashville Free Library recently to talk with a young writers' group.
The group, named ''THE Group,'' started writing novels themselves for a national novel writing program called NaNoWriMo. ''National Novel Writing Month'' is an annual novel writing project, held each November, that brings together professional and amateur writers from all over the world of all ages. More information about this program can be found on the website, www.nanowrimo.org.
''THE Group,'' which is made up of approximately eight homeschooled students, was only started for the November program, but the members enjoyed the process of sharing so much they decided to continue meeting. Ms. Habel was invited to come and share her experiences in writing and publishing by Kristin Johnson, who had heard her speak previously. Other members of ''THE Group'' include Laramine Ball, Marley Kester, Lars Benson, Ashley Johnson, Susan Bowers and, not pictured, Lance and Emma Gocke.
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Kristin Johnson, left, of ‘‘THE Group,’’ invited author Lia Habel, center, to speak to the group at the Ashville Free Library recently. Other members of the group of homeschooled students include Laramine Ball, Marley Kester, Lars Benson, Ashley Johnson, Susan Bowers and, not pictured, Lance and Emma Gocke.
Submitted photo
All of the students found it very enlightening and interesting to hear what Ms. Habel had to say about the process of writing and publishing. Ms. Habel herself also participated in NaNoWriMo previously. After Ms. Habel spoke, she invited the students to ask questions and discuss their own experiences. The opportunity to communicate one-on-one with an established author will not soon be forgotten.
At the end of their time together, Ms. Habel graciously donated an audio copy of her book, ''Dearly, Departed.''