“Wrimos” (AKA budding novelists, as known in the NaNoWriMo world) will get the chance to meet with novelist and UT faculty member Susan Parks this Wednesday evening, November 12, at Carlson Library’s third NaNoWriMo “Come Write-in” session.  Ms. Parks will briefly share her experience writing and self-publishing, and will welcome questions from aspiring novelists in attendance just before they get down to their own writing.

Susan Parks is a lecturer in literacy education at The University of Toledo. Throughout her childhood, she heard stories of her great grandparents in the Armenian Genocide and was inspired to write the book, “His Choice.” Captivated by her heritage, she studied the history of Armenia and the genocide in preparation for writing this historical novel.

Set in 1915 during World War I, the story chronicles the events of four orphaned sisters and their perseverance, determination, and struggle to survive. Through numerous twists and turns, this heart-wrenching story has an unexpected ending.

UT Lecturer Susan Parks shares her novel — along with some artifacts — with Nanowrimo participants last week. Her historical novel is based on the harrowing, true experience of her family during the Armenian genocide, 100 years ago.

Even if you are not a participant in National Novel Writing Month this year, you may be interested to know that Ms. Parks will have a book-signing later this month at Barnes & Noble.  [UPDATE (11/17/14):  book signing to take place at UT Barnes & Noble on corner of Dorr and Secor from 4-6 PM this Thursday, November 20.  We hope to see you there!  Read more.]

The Library will bring in two additional “special guests” to round out the remaining weeks of NaNoWriMo.  If you have a chance, please feel free to stop by and say hello to all of our special guests — even if you are not signed up as a Wrimo this year.