Aspiring writers find community and inspiration at Bootheel Writers' growing meetings

KENNETT, Mo. - The Bootheel Writers second meeting Thursday attracted more area talent that swelled its ranks.

Published authors and instructors John and Carol Fisher welcomed newcomers Matt Mobley, Martha Mobley, Harry Turner, Laura Ford and Jan McElwrath to the group, along with Charter Members Chris Hyde, Kenny Parks, Stephen Hankins, Lisa Dry, Sonya Newman and Julie Orf.

"This is very exciting," Carol Fisher said. "We have another group at Cape Girardeau that meets just once a month.

"This group meets twice monthly," she added. "And the energy is fantastic."

After introductions, members suggested resources that would serve to improve skills and enhance creativity, including textbooks, library tomes, films, scripts and websites.

Several in attendance shared their talents by reading selections from works in progress, including Hyde, Parks, Newman, McElwrath, Hankins, Ford and Dry, which then were peer-reviewed positively.

The Fishers shared valuable information about resources and John Fisher noted he would speak at next meeting about submitting query letters to publishers and changes in the publishing business.

Members come from all walks of life, and participation is welcome to anyone, regardless of age or skill level.

The Bootheel Writers meet at 4 p.m. every other Thursday at the Dunklin County Library Main Branch at Kennett.

Plan to attend the next gathering on Feb. 20 and learn writing skills from award-winning professionals.

The library is located at 209 Main St., Kennett.