Putting pen to paper

Year 10 student wins Youth Week writing competition

Year 10 student Ani Drexler has been announced as the winner of the Mount Gambier Library’s writing competition as part of the recent City of Mount Gambier’s Youth Week program of events.

Sponsored by Friends of the Library Mount Gambier, young people were encouraged to submit a short story they were proud of or an essay important to them, with the winning prize being a brand new Lenovo 14-inch laptop.

With 15 quality entries submitted, published author and judge Jacqui Davies carefully read and compiled feedback for every participant.

Ani’s entry is an 18 page first chapter, No Way Back, from her fan fiction story based on a video game called Dark Deception. “A natural writer and storyteller, Ani’s submission is a thrilling read from start to finish,” Jacqui said.

“The story’s shadowy atmosphere added tension to the already electrifying story, and the descriptions of people and places are acute and highly effective; I really did feel like I was there.

“ Ani also used a broad and thorough knowledge of foundational storytelling techniques by using sensory descriptions, emotion and action and dialogue, rather than using lengthy passive descriptions”.

Upon learning she had won the competition, Ani said she was shocked. “My stories and characters are incredibly precious to me, so when I heard that I’d won a prize with them, I was proud of them and myself,” she said.

“Then I read that I’d won a laptop, and my eyes flew wide open. I’m ecstatic about the win and very grateful for the beautiful prize.

“ It will definitely get plenty of use because I’m going to keep on writing.”

Ani’s entry is available to read on the Mount Gambier Library website.

BRINGING A STORY TO LIFE: Manager Library and Community Development Georgina Davison, published author and judge Jacqui Davies, winner Ani Drexler, and Friends of the Library Mount Gambier President Chris Lloyd