Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Monday, May 17, 2010

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The Tates Creek students toasted their good fortune in the writing contest.

Seven teenagers at Tates Creek High School are now published authors after their selection in VanHook House’s Student Voices Writing Contest.

During a visit to Tates Creek in the fall, publisher Julia Bellman was so impressed with the quality of writing she observed in a poetry slam showcase that she launched her first student-only writing competition.

Students from six states entered, but Bellman accepted only works by these storytellers and poets to publish in “Student Voices, Volume 1”: Brittany Brandt, Donovin Clark, Annie Griggs, Dorian Hairston, Jordan Kaelin, Teran Sundy and Sierra Thompson.

“It is their individual motivation, passion and talent that led to this recognition,” said Lauren Wolfe, a library media specialist. “While they don’t have the leadership and monitoring of a coach, they have certainly found their own support group in their families, as well as Tates Creek teachers and students.”

Teran, a senior, submitted a collection of about 20 poems on various themes such as love, loss and sadness, titled “Graffiti Heart.”

“Overall it’s just talking about life and my impressions,” he said. “It was a mix that shows who I am as a writer and what I can do.”

Sierra, a sophomore, is more into short stories. Her entry revolved around teen drama, namely how social structures like cliques interact and how stereotypical kids come together in a high school.

“I’m big on personal escapism,” she said. “Writing gives you more control over the story.”

Tates Creek hosted a reception May 12 for the contest winners. Their pictures are now displayed in the library’s “Authors Room,” where copies of “Student Voices” will be featured.

While signing his photograph, Teran shared some basic advice with younger writers: “Keep doing what you love.”