Author celebrates publishing successes after course
By John Wilson
AN AUTHOR based in Gosport is celebrating the publication of her third novel after recently joining a class for adult writers within St Vincent Sixth Form College.
Colleen Collinson started attending the Writer’s Workshop back in 2022 as she was looking for help with a children’s book she wanted to write. Inspired by her own childhood, Colleen’s first published story The Fantastic Day at the Beach explores friendship between animal; whilst another animal adventure entitled Raine’s Eggsellent Adventure swiftly followed in 2023.
This year’s The Hidden Roots of Fate shows her versatility, charting a family history during World War II. Colleen received her story in the post from the publisher before it hit the shelves and internet; which only built the excitement and sense of personal pride.
She said: “The sight was unbelievable. Holding it was like holding a piece of myself, finally given shape. That day, standing in the hallway with my book in hand, I felt both proud and humbled. My words had found their way into print, and that was enough to make the world feel brighter.”
Colleen drew upon the support of teachers and classmates during the Writer’s Workshop which is open to adult writers of all abilities and experience. Short story writer and poet Martin Ryan taught Colleen, as well as being a previous student on the course. He offered his own thoughts as he said:
“I am very proud of Colleen and all my students. Seeing them gain confidence in their writing and hearing the improvement in their work in class from term to term, and even lesson to lesson, is amazing. Having someone like Colleen going on to seeing her work in print is the icing on the cake.”
Writer’s Workshop classes are kept small with around ten adults, of all ages, sharing ideas in a friendly and supportive environment. Many students return year after year as their skill and confidence in writing grows. And Colleen knows that passion is key for anyone also looking to develop as a writer.
She concluded: “You really need to have it in you that you are interested in writing books. You need to really concentrate and really want to do it and go to the Writers’ Workshop and speak to other people interested in writing books.”
Applications for the Writer’s Workshop are currently open on www.stvincent.ac.uk, whilst readers can look at other courses available via the same link.
PICTURED: Martin Ryan (left) stands with Colleen Collinson (right) as she showcases her three novels that have been written since attending a course at St Vincent Sixth Form College.
