Thursday December 29, 2005

Starring role for budding writers

By LIM CHIA YING
Photos by SAM THAM

TWENTY-THREE budding authors have finally got their stories published.

Excitement was written all over their faces when they gathered at MPH Bookstores in Mid Valley Megamall for the unveiling of “Book Project 2’’. It consists of 27 contemporary, original short stories on a variety of subjects.

Ng...‘I was on top of the world’

The project, which is into its second edition, is the brainchild of businesswoman Karen-Ann Theseira.

She sought to give means and a platform to talented writers who faced numerous stumbling blocks in their pursuit to have their works published.

“With Book Project, we hope to produce books for the masses that will tap the talents of hoards of promising amateur writers,’’ she said.

“It’s about everyday people with everyday stories, told earnestly and communicated well.

“Our focus is the same as that for Book Project 1. We provide the opportunity and avenue to anyone who wants to showcase their writing talents.

“Once a writer’s work is published, who know what other doors may open for them. The first step, most importantly, is to give them a chance.’’

Theseira said her project was “lay literature’’.

“It is where stories may not always be melodramatic, or necessarily sensational, but told with simplicity and sincerity that crosses a cross-section of ages,’’ she said.

Visitors browsing through the newly-launched book at Mid Valley Megamall recently.

“With 27 different stories, I’m confident readers will find at least two or three stories that they will like.”

Theseira said she had received about 60 entries for the second project, but selected 27 of the better contributions for print.

“We are about to start Book Project 3. For that, I’m looking into fictional contributions that are less than 1,500 words. We welcome anyone who likes writing or with a genuine flair for storytelling to send us stories,” she added.

For Jayanthi Ng, seeing her work in print was “something unexpected’’.

“When I was informed on the eve of my birthday that my work has been selected, I was on top of the world,’’ she said.

“You wouldn’t believe the job opportunities that have come my way.’’

Theseira said the response for Book Project 1 was good. Almost 3,000 copies have already been sold.

Wide Alliance Sdn Bhd sponsored book Project 2. The book is now available at leading bookstores and is priced at RM22.

For enquiries on Book Project 3, email katjt@tm.net.my