Article Written by OCU student, Kiley Wray
Last Thursday, the OCU Library hosted its third annual Author Showcase. Eighteen authors set up tables at the event, including three OCU alumni. Library Director Tina Craft described the event as “a way for students who are aspiring writers to make connections with authors.” Students were given the opportunity to meet authors from a variety of walks of life who shared their wisdom and advice about finding a publisher, their own purpose for writing, and the highs and lows of being a writer. Authors brought copies of their books for students to view.
A highlight of the event was the keynote speakers’ presentations. This year’s speakers were OCU alumna Amber Ginter-Johnson and college student Kate Campbell. Tina Craft explained that when selecting the speakers for this year, she wanted to “take a new direction from the past.” In previous years, the keynote speakers mainly focused on writing styles and processes, but this year the focus shifted to the mental health of authors. Amber Ginter-Johnson writes blogs on social media advocating for mental health. She is a teacher-turned-author who has written books about Christianity and mental health.
The keynote speakers’ presentations were livestreamed and can be found on the Ohio Christian Maxwell Library Facebook page.
The Author Showcase included a variety of genres. There were children’s, fantasy, contemporary romance, Christian inspirational, and poetry books. The authors were extremely friendly, and it was a joy to hear them share about their books and their lives. Each one had a unique and inspiring story. One of the authors, Heidi Harris, has written 99 books. She also illustrates the covers of her books. She wrote her first book at fourteen years old and has written fantasy, contemporary romance, and children’s books. One of her books, Fruit of the Spirit with a Hint of Music, includes musical lyrics that explain the fruits of the Spirit. She also produces dyslexia-friendly copies.
Another author created Christian poems for each book of the Bible, organized as a 365-day devotional to be read throughout the year. She split it into five volumes. Her poems are a great tool for remembering key points about each book of the Bible, and they are also full of emotion and heart. She captures the beauty and depth of the books of the Bible. This author originally started writing as a way to reflect on Scripture for her personal study. She is a high school teacher in Hilliard and has taught for 38 years. Her family encouraged her to publish her books. When she retires from teaching, she plans to travel and speak at private schools about her books.
The Author Showcase was a fantastic event, and OCU was blessed to have so many talented writers on campus. Children from the community attended, as well as OCU students and staff. Refreshments were provided by the library, and the authors had the opportunity to sell their books at their booths. OCU is already looking forward to next year’s Author Showcase.