Writing Wings ‘Unfurled’ with First Chapters Book

Media Release
8 September 2008

Writing Wings ‘Unfurled’ as First Chapters Book Launched

Manukau Libraries is proud to announce the launch of Unfurled - the book produced to celebrate the 2008 First Chapters - Ngā Wāhanga Tuatahi writer-in-residence programme.

First Chapters provides the opportunity for emerging local writers to receive one-on-one coaching from an established author.

Writer-in-residence for this year’s programme was multi award-winning New Zealand writer James George. A short story writer and novelist, James is the author of several novels including Ocean Roads and Hummingbird.

Unfurled is the culmination of more than six months’ work by George and the 30 participants enrolled in this year's programme. The book contains selected works chosen by an expert judging panel.

The nine new authors included are Wahid Ahmed, Jim Carraher, Chick Dubber, Vanessa Hatley-Owen, Christine Shields, Jill Skeet, Sue Lees, Grant Stone and Matthew Tremlett. A new short story penned by George is also included.

First Chapters project manager Jocelyn Watkin says the collection is compelling. “The new writers confront grudges, ghosts and blasts from the past while another portrays a disturbing image of New Zealand in the future. Others consider whether revenge, defiance or simply accepting the way things are makes it easier to decide what to do next in life. These are fresh and exciting contemporary stories and poems.”

Manukau Libraries Manager Mirla Edmundson says becoming a published author is a big deal for aspiring writers. “We are excited that a number of members of our community have become recognised for their writing and have been published. They have worked hard and made the most of the opportunity working with James has given them.”

The book will be launched at Manurewa Library on Saturday 20 September. James will talk about his experiences as a mentor on First Chapters and several writers will read excerpts from their work.

This event is free; however places are limited. Please RSVP by Wednesday 17 September. Refreshments will be provided.

Venue: Manurewa Library (Community Room)
Date: Saturday 20 September 2008
Time: 2-4pm
RSVP: Paul Brown, Manukau Libraries T 262 5101
E paul.brown@manukau.govt.nz

First Chapters - Ngā Wāhanga Tuatahi is presented by Manukau Libraries and Papakura’s Sir Edmund Hillary Library in partnership with the New Zealand Society of Authors.

ENDS

Editor’s Note:
Thanks to the NZ Society of Authors we have 2 free copies of the book to give to any local media who would like to attend the launch (available from 16 Sept).

Authors
Jim and Jill have poetry in "Unfurled", while all of the others have short stories. Where phone numbers are included, the author is happy to be contacted for comment/interviews.
James George, 021 651 1512
Chick (Mr) Dubber, Howick
Christine Shields, Bucklands Beach, 534 1955
Grant Stone, Howick, 027 537 3061
Jill Skeet, Mangere East
Jim Carraher, Manurewa, 0274 948352
Matthew Tremlett, Beachlands
Sue Lees, Maraetai
Vanessa Hatley-Owen, Howick
Wahid Ahmed, Manurewa

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