Members of the Aspiring Authors Club at PA Distance Learning Charter School have been working systematically on a collection of original poetry and short stories. The composition, titled “Shadows of the Mind,” has already been submitted to print and will be available as a physical copy to students within the coming weeks. 

The Aspiring Authors Club consists of PA Distance students in grades 7-12 and is led by Secondary English teacher Mrs. Lauren Donofrio. The group meets every Monday from 3:30-4:30 pm.

The club began as a way for imaginative individuals to collaborate and strengthen their storytelling and creative writing skills. Meetings are held to discuss different writing strategies, points of view, and character ideas.

“Being with my friends and reading other's stories is a fun thing I looked forward to each Monday after school. I hope the students who also join this club will enjoy it just as much,” commented Evelina M.

Mrs. Donofrio assigns the group a wide range of writing prompts in order to encourage students to step outside their comfort zones.

“Each prompt is developed with the intention of helping students explore different genres. It’s interesting to see how they sometimes put a spin on whatever is going on in their real life in order to tell a story,” she explained.

“It's a vulnerable thing to share your writing, and the fact that everyone is positive and supportive is incredible. It is so nice to see students lifting each other up.”

The young authors utilize a collective online document to jot down inspiration and ideas, as well as a messaging app to chat outside of meetings.

“Shadows of the Mind” has been an ongoing collaboration among club members. PA Distance students set a deadline, designed the cover art, and formatted author biographies before submitting the 300-page work to print. Each contributor will receive a copy after publication.

"To anyone reading our book, be prepared for a whirlwind of emotions and maybe keep a box of tissues nearby,” said Hannah N.

Mrs. Donofio expects all current club members to return next year, but would also love to see some new faces.

“We really want to have artists join and create illustrations for the next publication. I look forward to seeing what my students produce, and to all of the possibilities in the future!”

If you are interested in receiving a copy of “Shadows of the Mind,” please reach out to Mrs. Donofrio at lauren.donofrio@padistance.org, and click here for more information on after-school clubs at PA Distance.