Children's author will speak at library

A children's author from Evans looks forward to sharing her trials and tribulations with aspiring writers Saturday at the Columbia County Library.

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Gerrie Sobel, author of Jacob and His Magical Flying Bears, wants to explain the process involved with writing a children's book.

"There's quite a story behind the book and how I wrote the book," Sobel said. "I will be talking about that and how I actually got the book published."

The adventure book, published in 2006, focuses on a boy named Jacob and his secret Christmas wish.

The book, her first published work, was partially inspired by her 4-year-old grandson, Jacob, who was a baby at the time.

"There's wonderful lessons in the book to be learned," Sobel said. "The book is all about hope and charity and the love a little boy has for both of his parents."

Anyone 12 or older can attend the free presentation, which begins at 1:30 p.m., but registration is required, said Sherryl James, the library's reference service manager. The class can hold up to 30 people.

Not only will Sobel discuss her book, but she will also talk about the rejections involved with publishing.

James asks those in attendance to bring along illustrations or written work.

"We're encouraging people who have a manuscript or anything written down to please bring it in, and they'll look at it as a group," James said.

Sobel, who currently works as the special events director at Augusta's Pinnacle Club, said she has been writing for many years.

"Because of my job, I've done all kinds of promotional writing over the years, but I never ever thought in a million years that I would be a children's author," she said.

She added that perseverance is important to maintain while writing.

"I hope that I'll be an inspiration for young people to read this book," Sobel said. "And I hope also that it will motivate others to write books if they're interested in writing."

For information, or to register, call the library's reference desk at (706) 863-1946.