Tara Murray
Budding young author Laura Flanagan can’t wait for book week at Caroline Chisholm Catholic College.
The year 11 student has always been a keen reader and writer, but that was taken to the next level when she took out first place in the year 11 and 12 category of the Victorian Association for the Teaching of English (VATE) Stories That Change 2021 writing competition.
Laura’s winning piece was called reflection.
“It was about a person trying to figure out their identity in life and figuring out what they were meant to do,” she said.
“I thought the story would inspire young people and make them feel something. I was talking a lot about identity with my friends and talking about what we want to be when we are older.”
With confidence growing, Laura is continuing to write.
“I’ve written quite a few short stories since,” she said.
“I’m writing a novel at the moment, but it’s nowhere near finished.”
Laura will be one of the many students taking part in Caroline Chisholm Catholic College’s book week between August 23 and 27.
The college celebrations will include a number of guest speakers.
“I want to talk with the other authors about getting books out there and inspiring and learning with writing,” Laura said.
“It’s about bringing people together through writing.”
