By Jamie Salter
Local author Kelly Wilson is introducing her young adult novel Breathe Grace thanks to a launch event at the Upper Beaconsfield General Store.
Kelly had her pen ready to sign the new novel along with her two picture books – Lady Lulu and Hudson Houdini.
The café was buzzing with local community members who enjoyed a coffee and a chat with Kelly.
“We were just blown away by the amount of support from local and afar,” Kelly said.
Kelly has spent 18 years working in education at Upper Beaconsfield Primary School.
To keep her students engaged during Covid-19 lockdowns, Kelly started telling them funny stories about her pets which eventually turned into her picture books.
The book launch celebrated the release of Kelly’s first young adult novel, Breathe Grace, which tells the story of a girl who is sent to the mysterious Zarnish Estate, located in the vastness of outback Northern Territory and the home of a grandma she barely knows.
Grace learns more about her family’s past and how their dangerous connections have shattered their legacy and Grace will need to piece together the clues before it is too late.
Kelly said she writes about topical issues to inspire young people to make change.
“If we all have a voice on what’s happening around us, things can change,” Kelly said.
“It is my first young adult novel and it just flew out the door, so I’m just really grateful for the support.
“My next novel, The Shadows In My Mind, is due out in March, and we’re already planning the next event because it was such a success.”
Kelly thanked Upper Beaconsfield General Store owner Stephanie Davey for her support.
“We were very excited to be asked to hold a book launch – it’s a great way to support our community and to promote literacy,” Steph said.
“It was a very busy morning with lots of regulars and lots of Kelly’s followers.
“There were heaps of people lining up to chat with her – it was just a really fantastic atmosphere and we’re happy to support our locals.”
