Last weekend, readers and writers alike gathered at Carrollton’s Cultural Arts Center to support each other and celebrate local authors. The event, hosted by the Carrollton Writers Guild and the Arts Center, was split into two distinct sessions: Friday focused on workshops for aspiring authors, while Saturday centered on book sales and author meet-and-greets. The Guild invited several keynote speakers, including Tarah Shelton Harris, author of One Summer in Savannah and Long After We Are Gone, to share her insights and journey through the writing and publishing process.
I had the pleasure of attending one of Friday’s classes with Bren McClain, author of One Good Mama Bone. The dozen or so attendees came well-prepared: each had submitted their own work and reviewed excerpts from the others before arriving. McClain shared her experiences as a writer and made space for attendees to discuss one another’s work. The respectful dialogue helped participants think more critically—or even feel more confident—about their creations.
Throughout the workshop, McClain encouraged writers to explore their stories more deeply by offering simple yet thoughtful writing prompts. One such prompt was: “What baggage does your character have?”
Once the laughter subsided, pondering expressions filled the room.
“Your characters have baggage that informs their actions,” McClain smiled, “but it can also inform you!”
Many writers, after staring intently at the foam ceiling tiles or pacing the room, eagerly began to scribble notes or type away at their laptops.
Prompts like this—and the thoughtful feedback from peers—were exactly what many came for: inspiration, yes, but also training.
Other workshops included Pathways to Publication, moderated by authors George Weinstein and Kim Conrey, and The Craft of Writing a Marketable Children’s Book, where Lola M. Schaefer offered key insights.
Some attendees had already self-published and were seeking guidance on gaining visibility. During the lunch break, I spoke with a few of these authors who shared that the information they received gave them new tools to further their books’ reach. When I asked each about what they had written—or were currently working on—many blushed or cast their eyes down before shyly describing their projects. I’d argue Book Fest also doubled as a networking event; the number of pitches I heard and business cards slipped into my hand could fill a novelette.
One such author was Frank Rogers. Though he always knew he loved storytelling—thanks to his mother’s thoughtful reading sessions during childhood—he had several careers before finally settling behind the desk. His first novel, Upon a Crazy Horse, was published in 2009, and he hasn’t stopped since. Rogers shared with me and other attendees that while publishing can be a challenge, persistence is key.
“If you’ve dreamed of writing a novel, stop dreaming,” he urged. “Stop wishing. Stop waiting. Start writing.”
You can check out his work at www.franktheauthor.com.
His wife, Mary Rogers, also in attendance, illustrates all of his book covers.
The Arts Center buzzed with excited readers and listeners all Saturday morning. In the lobby, volunteers helped authors set up tables to display and sell their beloved books. Beverly Buemmer, author of at least three beautifully illustrated children’s books, was stationed at the first table in a long line showcasing local talent. Most authors were from West Georgia, though some came from Atlanta and even as far as Savannah.
One group from Atlanta, Sisters in Crime, set up shop in the eastern hallway. Their president, Tenesha Curtis, spoke about writing crime novels and the group’s tradition of challenging each other to explore different genres. Curtis, who typically writes crime and romance, was recently challenged to write something lighter—and had her holiday novel The Christmas Proof on display.
The group’s treasurer, Sharon Marchisello, writes cozy mysteries—a genre popular with many age groups. Her titles included Trap, Neuter, Die and Live Well, Grow Wealth. I pointed at the latter, curious.
“Yes, I wrote about my experience with personal finance,” she smiled. “I just wanted to share my thoughts!”
Clearly, Sisters in Crime isn’t tethered to just one genre!
Two other members, Mike Nemeth and Bob Rothman, also shared how the group offers opportunities to learn, grow, and network. You can find Nemeth’s and Rothman’s works online as well.
But you don’t have to drive to Atlanta to find a supportive writing group. The Carrollton Writers Guild meets several days a week right at the Carrollton Cultural Arts Center on Bankhead in downtown Carrollton. You can email them at [email protected] or visit www.carrolltonwritersguild.org for more info. They’ll happily welcome your company—and your contributions!
Who knows? Maybe your book will be featured at next year’s Carrollton Book Fest!
