As a novelist, I believe writing can open new worlds for teenagers. It lets them explore their creativity, and it sharpens not only their writing but their thinking. I also believe creative writing can pave the way to academic success…and college scholarships.

In 2009, I started Wordsmiths, an afterschool creative writing program for students from Birmingham public schools. For the 2011-2012 academic year, we have 14 students from 6th through 11th grade. Students meet with me (plus other professional writers and college volunteers) each week for 2 ½ hours, and they complete a homework assignment for each class.

After a year of Wordsmiths, students can expect the following:

• To improve vocabulary and critical thinking, leading to higher scores on standardized tests.
• To write more clearly, concisely, and with a style of their own.
• To boost self-confidence and to see their own unique talents. We all have a story that no one else can tell.
• To enter their work in state and national writing contests and to be published in the Wordsmiths class magazine.

There is no charge for the program. There are no grades. Instead there’s plenty of individual attention, a great deal of feedback, and a focus on each student’s particular talents.

Class meets throughout the school year on Wednesday afternoons at Birmingham-Southern College.