With events always on the go at the Portage Regional Library, local author Rachael Clarke is taking on a first for herself.
Clarke announced via X, the social media formerly known as Twitter, that she would be leading a writing class for adults, 18 and up.
"This is new for me. I've never actually taught a class, I have taught drawing classes before, as I'm also an artist, but I've never really taught a writing class. But I'm excited to share what I know, I mean, I'm not an expert by any stretch of the imagination, but I have a great passion for writing. I've learned a little bit as I've gone along, and I'm happy to share what I do know with anyone. So, I hope people come down, it should be a fun time."
On top of the class coming up, Clarke is also releasing a book shortly before the class, titled 'Don't Look, Just Run,' which she describes as a combination of horror and thriller genres, and it releases on October 30, which is known as Mischief Night. She adds she'd love to chat about that with anyone who is interested.
The relationship she has with the library has been something that has grown since she started writing more seriously in 2019.
"I love the library, I've have a lot of my book launches there, it's such a great resource for our community, and developed a bit of a relationship with them. So, I was really honoured when I got an email, 'Hey, would you like to come and teach a class for us during NaNoWriMo,' which is National Novel Writing Month, and I was all over it. So, November 2 is the day it's happening at the library, from 12 to 1 p.m. and I'll just be there talking about all kinds of different things. I'll talk about short stories, the art of storytelling, getting your ideas, and also a little bit about publishing and novel writing, just from my own experience. Anyone can pick my brain, so come and ask me questions too."
Clarke adds that registration is required by calling the library 204-857-4271. She adds you can also reach out to her on her website if you have questions for her.