Four year old, Coryn Anaya Clarke, who is the face of the NGC Children’s Bocas Lit Fest, Dragonzilla Short Story Writing Challenge, donated a copy of her very own book, “Chronicles of Coryn: 7 Days of Fun” to NALIS on October 14.

This book is the first in a series of adventure books geared towards young children. According to Jasmin Simmons, NALIS’ Director, Public Libraries Division, “It is easy to read and has been described by some as “informative and inspiring”. Clarke, who exudes confidence and poise beyond her years, has been lauded for her accomplishment and was welcomed by NALIS into the fold of persons who have published for the first time. Bettyann Sieudath, Librarian IV (Ag) received the publication on behalf of NALIS.

The NGC Bocas Lit fest, Dragonzilla Short Story Writing Challenge was launched as a part of the annual NGC Bocas Lit Fest which encourages children to showcase their story writing skills. The Challenge, being held in collaboration with NALIS has been aptly themed “My Covid Story.” Simmons said, “It gives young writers an opportunity for self-expression and to gain confidence at a time when so many privileges have been curtailed.”

Over the years, NALIS has collaborated with the NGC Bocas Lit Fest to host the Storytelling Caravan at the Port of Spain Children’s Library where hundreds of children would gather to hear the nation’s best storytellers perform. Simmons, who commended Danielle Delon, director of the Children’s Festival – NGC Bocas Lit Fest for her diligence in ensuring that children discover the joy of writing, commenting about the new format of the story writing activity said, “Now we see the caravan re-envisioned in an exciting virtual space and with young writers like Coryn emerging, our future is even brighter.” Approximately 130 entries were received for the Challenge. Shorted listed entrants will now be required to submit videos of themselves performing their stories. Winners will be announced in early December.