The Luminary Shines at Santa Monica Public Library
Santa Monica Library celebrated the print publication of the first issue of THE LUMINARY, Santa Monica Public Library’s (SMPL) teen literacy & art magazine, with readings and discussions by the teen authors and artists, along with some special guest local children’s book authors.
The idea for this project came from Teen Youth Services Librarian, Gia Forsyth, who also runs a popular teen volunteer program at the main branch of SMPL.
After months of hard work, Forsyth planned the celebration in the library’s multi-purpose room and invited the teen creators, other teen volunteers, and members of the community.
With their writing projected on a screen behind them, teen authors read their works from a podium. With a mix of poetry and flash fiction, the audience was treated to many wonderful, fresh voices.
Special guests included local children’s author and CLCSC Board Member Nell Cross Beckerman, author of picture books including Caves, Volcanoes, and From Park to Playa: The Trails That Connect Us. She enjoyed speaking with teen volunteers about navigating the pressure to choose a “responsible” career path vs. following creative aspirations.
Erika Lewis, author of many middle grade and YA books, including the Kelcie Murphy series and The Color of Dragons, spoke about the differences between writing in first person and third person. Mirelle Ortega, Author & Illustrator of River of Mariposas and Magic: Once Upon a Faraway Land, discussed her journey working in the animation field.
Congratulations to all involved in THE LUMINARY—we hope to see many more issues!