Publishing with a little help from her friends

CHERYL Connally credits the support and encouragement she receives from members of the Heathcote U3A Writing Group with inspiring her to publish her children’s book.

Ms Connally has been writing and illustrating stories for her grandchildren for 12 years and joined the writing group early this year.

“I started writing stories for my eight grandchildren,” she said.

“They have all received a special story of their own and they love them.

“Earlier this year I joined the U3A writing group and found an inspiring group of writers who were very supportive and encouraging.

“I couldn’t have done it without them.

“With their encouragement and with wonderful IT help from fellow group member Bronwyn Wheatley my book Tyson The Tortoise Wants An Adventure was published.

“My grandchildren are all excited that their grandmother is a published author and I don’t think I stopped smiling for a week.”

The books have mostly been given to family and friends, but Ms Connally is open to selling copies.

“We’ve just ordered some more so I guess I would if anyone was interested,” she said. “It is all very new to me.”

Ms Connally has been retired for 15 years and previously worked as a schoolteacher.

“I taught at Heathcote Primary School and then for 25 years at Holy Rosary Primary School.

“For the last thirteen years of teaching I did reading recovery for grade 1 students.

“It was very rewarding and taught me a lot about what young children want and need in stories.

“Repetitive text is important with simple supportive illustrations.”

Besides writing, Ms Connally enjoys craft and gardening.

She attends the Heathcote Craft Group, another supportive group that meets every Tuesday at 9am in the RSL Hall.

“It was a tortoise toy someone made in the group that inspired the idea for my book,” said Ms Connally.

“The craft group is another wonderful group, and we would love to welcome new members.”

Ms Connally is now working on a new story about a Christmas mouse, inspired by a writing group prompt.

“I would encourage anyone to join U3A, not only for the writing group but also for the many other activities and groups they hold.

“There is something for everyone and it is a great way to make new friends.”