Three authors to talk ‘Writing the Novel’ at February events

Authors Katie Andraski, Charles Blackstone and G.K. Wuori, participants in the #WNIJReadWithMe Book Series, will share their experiences in two “Writing the Novel” panels hosted by WNIJ and the Rockford Public Library.

The events will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 16, in the Rockford Public Library Nordlof Center and at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, in the new Northern Public Radio Studio A in DeKalb.

The authors will talk about their writing processes and inspirations and how they got their work both written and published.

Andraski is the author of the novel, “The River Caught Sunlight,” a book about a devoutly Christian woman who re-examines her faith while working as a publicist in the Christian publishing industry. She teaches English composition at NIU.

In addition to this novel, she has published poetry, essays and reviews. She worked for several years as a publicist in Christian publishing, where she successfully convinced editors at Newsweek, The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, Moody and Christianity Today to publicize her company and authors.

Blackstone is the author of the new novel Vintage Attraction, a work about a University of Illinois-Chicago English instructor who falls – glass first – into a love affair and the world of wine when he meets a famous and enchanting sommelier.

From Chicago and now living in New York City, Blackstone is the editor of the book review publication Bookslut and was named one of Newcity’s Lit 50 in its annual “Who Really Books in Chicago” feature. His short stories have appeared in Esquire and other publications.

Wuori is the author of the new novella, Infidelity, which takes the reader on a ride through two intersecting story lines in the life of small town trial lawyer Jim O’Hara – trying to defend an indefensible murderer and dealing with a young widow who has a teenage daughter and very few choices after facing foreclosure. Wuori has published novels, short stories and essays. His story, “Afrikaan Bottles” won a Pushcart Prize, and he is an Illinois Council Fellow.

The Feb. 16 panel will be presented in the J. R. Sullivan Theater in the Rockford Public Library Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St. The Feb. 18 event will be the first presentation in the newly completed Studio A at Northern Public Radio, 801 N. First St. in DeKalb.

“Writing the Novel” events are free and open to the public, but space is limited. Attendees are encouraged to call (815) 753-9000 to reserve their seats. Copies of the books will be available for purchase and signing at both events.

For more information, call (815) 753-9000 or email npr@niu.edu.