Local author and creator of the International Junior Authors Contests, Laura Michelle Thomas, will be at Albany Books in Tsawwassen this Saturday.
Thomas will meet young writers and promote her book, Polly Wants to Be a Writer: The Junior Authors Guide to Writing and Getting Published.
Aimed at showing aspiring young writers how to break into print, the hybrid novel and writing guide stars Polly, a 15-year-old wannabe writer who comes face-to-face with her inner dragon, a truculent, impatient creature who is a talented but frightful critic of her writing.
With the help of Ms. Patience Whitford, a character inspired by Thomas' personal experience as a writing mentor, Polly struggles to finish a short story as she gets herself entangled in a scheme that threatens the future of every writer on the planet.
Thomas - who is also the publisher of an international e-zine for young writers and organizer of Junior Authors conferences - said the book has been
receiving high marks from young writers worldwide.
"I know how hard it is to get a toehold as a writer. The reviews tell me that Polly's tale is doing what I wanted it to do: teach and inspire young writers through story."
Thomas added that writers and readers can expect more than just a book signing. She will also have goody bags for everyone who stops in to meet her and special prizes for the writers on her "insider" mailing list. She will also answer questions about writing and publishing.
Albany Books announced there is an autographed copy of Polly Wants to Be a Writer up for grabs in a door prize draw that will take place at the beginning of the event on Saturday. Young writers, and their supporters, are invited to stop by the store and enter the draw.
Thomas will be at Albany Books, 1240-56th St., from 1 to 2:30 pm.
To find out more about Thomas and what she offers young writers, visit www.laurathomascommunications.com.
