Have a great story you want to write?  Not sure how to start?  A local writing group, Yosemite Foothill Authors, has a suggestion.  A few years ago, each of its members enrolled in a short story class offered through the Mariposa County Arts Council taught by C. B. Mosher.

As they wanted to continue together after the class was completed, a writing group was formed.  In 2014, the group published an anthology of short stories, 'In Half Dome’s Shadow'.  Proceeds from the sale of the volume will eventually be offered as scholarships to local aspiring writers.

Some of the short stories developed into longer pieces, and several members are currently working on book-length writing.  Bill Yaley’s historical novel, entitled 'Struggle to Survive', was recently published.  It tells the story of the 1975 Babylift, the air evacuation of approximately 2500 babies and orphans from Vietnam to the U.S. as Saigon fell.  Mosher is obtaining feedback from the group on the draft of his third novel and on more of his stories.

The next short story writing course will be offered in the fall of 2015 to those interested in learning how to write compelling stories.  The cost is $50 for 6 weeks of instruction and practice with C.B. Mosher.

Within a supportive atmosphere, students in the class provide each other with writing reviews, critiques, suggestions for improvement, and encouragement, with the goal of honing the skills of each.  Such a group is an invaluable asset to developing the ability to effectively create a story that others will want to read.  The short story class teaches these techniques.

If you have a story to tell, or would like to learn how to create an idea for one, invest in yourself!  Contact the Mariposa County Arts Council at: (209) 966-3155 or email: friedland@mariposaartscouncil.org.  Ask to be included on the list to receive information about dates, time, and location of the fall course and how to sign up.