Seven Starkville High School English and literature classes got to learn about the writing process when author Terry Lynn Thomas visited the school’s library Tuesday.
A San Francisco native, Thomas currently lives in Starkville and is writing a series of gothic novels set in 1940’s San Francisco and centering on protagonist Sarah Bennett, who has the ability to see ghosts and is trying to clear her name following the suspicious death of her mother.
Thomas read two passages from “The Spirit of Grace,” the first book in her series and answered students’ questions about writing, influences, development and other facets of authorship.
“I’m really glad to be invited to Starkville High to work with everyone today and share my love of ghosts and madness with these children,” Thomas said.
Thomas added that this was the first time she had talked to students about writing, and that she was impressed with both the students and teachers she spoke with.
“We try to have authors come, because we feel that it’s important for the students to hear from someone that actually is in that profession,” said SHS Librarian Terrie Kennett. “The students seemed very engaged, in that Mrs. Thomas was a very good example of an author and gave important information that I think the students can use.”
Both Thomas and Kennett said they hoped hearing from an author would encourage students to read more.
The first two books of Thomas’ Sarah Bennett series, “The Spirit of Grace” and “Weeping in The Wings,” are published through Black Opal Books with more volumes in progress.
Thomas is married to SHS Assistant Band Director Doug Thomas and currently lives in Starkville.