Chanan Emmons heads up the children’s Fiction Writing Program.
By Chanan Emmons
Beginning in November, the Garland County Library will offer three monthly, in-person fiction writing programs for children ages 10 to 18.
In the Fiction Writer’s Cafe program, teens can enjoy hot beverages and a laid-back atmosphere while learning the ins and outs of character, plot, scene, dialogue, and more. Teens ages 16-18 are invited to attend on Monday, November 7. Teens ages 13-15 may attend on the following Monday, November 14. Both sessions will begin at 4:00 P.M.
Kids ages 10-12 can join the Scribes of Prydain, a combination book club and fiction writing group, based on Lloyd Alexander’s fantasy series, The Chronicles of Prydain. Participants will read short passages from the books and use them as a jumping-off place to create their own stories. The Scribes will meet on Monday, November 21, also at 4:00 P.M.
“First and foremost, I want the kids to feel comfortable,” says Youth Programs Coordinator Chanan Emmons, who will lead all three groups. “Creative work can be tough, so I want to keep things low-key while still providing the kids with high-quality instruction in fiction writing. If a writer feels more comfortable telling their story with paint or clay or by acting it out, I’m willing to work with them.”
Registration is required for each of these programs. Participants may register through the calendar on the library’s website at www.gclibrary.com or by calling the library.
The Garland County Library is located at 1427 Malvern Avenue in Hot Springs. For more information about virtual programming, online databases, curbside pickup, home delivery, and more, contact the library at 501-623-4161. Questions can also be sent to gcl@gclibrary.com. Visit www.gclibrary.com for access to the online catalog, accounts, and e-materials.
Chanan earned her MFA in Writing for Children & Young Adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts and her BA in Professional & Technical Writing from UALR.
