Young Writer to Become Published

By Iris B. Holton

Sentinel City Editor

As youngsters, we often have an idea what field we would like to pursue as adults.  But seldom do we find youngsters who select a career and never change their minds as they grow older.

Lyrik Courtney is one of those youngsters who have already decided her career path.  Not only has Lyrik decided that she wants to become a novelist, she has realized that dream.

The novel had its origin at Clair Mel Elementary School where Lyrik is a student of Dr. Michael P. Floyd, Jr.

For the past five years, Dr. Floyd has given his students an assignment to write a fictional story.  After the stories are completed, the 20 class members take part in packaging them and sending them to five publishing companies.

“This helps build the students’ interest in writing,” Dr. Floyd said.

Lyrik’s first literary contribution, entitled “Nami & The Dragons,” is scheduled for release next spring.

Dr. Floyd said everyone was surprised and supportive of the young budding author, including her classmates.

However, Lyrik met the news with mixed emotions.  “I was a little bit worried that I wasn’t going to do it right, but, I tried my best and it came out alright.”

Lyrik worked on her project daily for about 3 months.  IT was a welcomed journey, “I really love to read and I like stories about angels, dragons and demons.”

Lyrik and her mom, Ms. Euonia (Nikki) Wilborn, were surprised about the news of the offer to publish the book.  They were even more surprised when the publisher asked Lyrik to write a second book, which is the continuation of the story.

Lyrik is among the few who have launched her career at the age of 10.  “I want to be an author and publish children’s books.  I love fantasy,” she said.

The youngster also feels that if children read what they enjoy, then they will develop a love of reading.

In addition to being an honor student, (with math being her weakest subject), Lyrik plays the violin, piano and sings in the choir.  Although in 5^th grade, she is taking 6^th and 7^th grade classes online.

The book is being published by Creative House International Press, Inc., in Austin, Texas.  Dr. Floyd continues to serve as the liaison between the family and the publisher.

 

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(c) June 2010 by the Tampa Bay Sentinel Newspaper

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nami & The Dragon

In Lyrik's own words:  "It's basically about an angel named Nami, and when her friends get kidnapped, she goes on a rescue mission to save them," Lyrik explained to the Fox Tampa Bay news.

Nami and the Dragons will feature the art of Lucie Rivard.