Writers Guild Critique Night

A critique session was our program at the first 2006 meeting of Southern Illinois Writers Guild last night. Critique nights are alway exciting as we get to hear such diverse offerings. Of necessity, readings must be brief, with 19 in our large reading circle. Yet it is kinda nice to be left wishing for more. Our new program chair Deb Tucker kept the flow of readings going rapidly with comfortable discussion and comments after the readings. Not everyone read, but everyone told a little about themselves and their particular writing interests. Because writing is a solitary experience, most writers relish contact with others who understand their frustraions, problems, and pleasures. I've also found that writers are extremely generous in offering help to other writers, who could be considered competitors, but instead are considered colleagues and friends with a shared passion for words and stories.

Bill O'Shea, author of the compelling The Foot Post, a few years back has completed another novel--though he said he did not expect to write a second one. After four years as as a CASA volunteer, Bill felt he had to do something to help the public understand what molested children go through. His topic is not a pretty one, but the reality of child abuse makes it necessary for a humane community to wake up and recognize what is going on in the homes and schools and lanes of our cities, towns, villages and rural areas. His purpose is to help us understand. When the book is published, Bill plans to donate all profits to prevent child abuse. We'll keep you posted when the book becomes available.