Writing Community Unites to Write Anthology for Disa

Writing Community Unites to Write "Stories of Strength" for Disaster Relief As they watched the coverage of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation, writers who had gathered on the AbsoluteWrite.com message boards decided not to sit by helplessly any longer. Instead, they set their pens and keyboards to work— writing uplifting essays, short fiction, and poetry on the theme of "strength." The result is the 316-page anthology Stories of Strength, with 100 percent of the proceeds to go to disaster relief charities, including the Red Cross, Americares, and the Salvation Army. Headed by Jenna Glatzer, author of acclaimed Celine Dion biography For Keeps, this project attracted contributions from many well-known writers, including a story and an original hymn by award-winning science fiction novelist Orson Scott Card, an essay by famed actor Wil Wheaton (Star Trek, Stand By Me), and a short story from Christian romance author Robin Lee Hatcher. With more than 100 pieces from writers all over the world, and the gracious efforts of prominent editors and graphic designers, Stories of Strength is a tribute to the human spirit: celebrating true stories of courage and endurance in challenging situations that range from the death of a child to living through natural disasters, to smaller-scale trials, like dealing with returning an overdue book to the local library. Shelagh Watkins, who lives in Swansea, is one of the writers whose work was chosen for the anthology, Stories of Strength. Her poem, Hope For A Safer Place, is about gaining the strength to make the world a safer place. "I'm honoured to have my poem included," says Shelagh. "It feels great to be able to use my love of writing to help people in need. I hope this project will be a great success." Alternating between tear-jerking and humorous, Stories of Strength is guaranteed to inspire and remind readers that the human spirit knows no boundaries. "Many people have said they plan to order copies for everyone on their holiday list," says Jenna Glatzer. "What a fantastic way to give a present that also helps people rebuild their lives." The writers hope to turn their words into sizeable long-term contributions to disaster relief charities. In addition to the writers’ donations, publishing company Lulu (www.lulu.com) is generously donating its profits from the project. The book will be available direct from Lulu on November 1, 2005, and available to order from bookstores world wide soon thereafter. Book details: Stories of Strength Editor/Publisher: Jenna Glatzer Publishing services provided by Lulu ISBN: 1-4116-5503-6