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by pltm
(PLTM) - Aspiring writers throughout the Territory are being encouraged to put pen to paper, and begin working on their own books, no matter the topic. Director of the Department of Culture, Mrs. Luce Hodge-Smith, while speaking at an event earlier this week, spoke to the importance of locals documenting their thoughts, opinions and creativity, and publishing it for the world to see. “There are more books to be written out there. I encourage persons aspiring, to pen their first book to get started.” She said, “I am no expert, but I believe that’s the first step, and I encourage established authors to encourage and to help those aspiring authors, and those who have started to continue writing.” Over the years, the department has made it its aim to assist persons in the BVI in launching and marketing their books locally, regionally and internationally. To this day, the department has assisted in launching 27 books, since their first launch in 2007. Mrs. Hodge-Smith said, “We have certainly seen an increase in books being published from the BVI, and as a result, we have increased or improved upon the literary arts of the BVI.” She encouraged persons to not only buy the books for support purposes, but to read them as well. “The onus now on all of us, is not just to buy the books, but to read them, share them as gifts and ensure and encourage our children to also read them.” She said, “I pray this growth continue for time to come. The department pledges to assist authors in launching their books. As a matter of fact, it is included in our plan every year.” She disclosed that the department will host another two book launches by BVI authors, before the end of July.
