On March 28th, Cedar Key Middle School students were given the opportunity to learn what it's like to be a published author by local resident, and author, Terri DuLong. Ms. DuLong recently retired in Cedar Key, along with her husband Ray and their dog Holly. 
Terri answering questions from the students (photo by Rose Valle)
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Born in Salem Massachusetts, Terri can't remember a time when she wasn't writing, whether it was in a diary or journal, she always felt the need to express herself in words on a page. Her professional writing career didn't begin until she was in her thirties, and had already worked as a legal secretary, a medical secretary and a registered nurse.
"Reading shaped my life" Terri told the students, and listed several of her favorite books; Little Women, Beautiful Joe, and the Velveteen Rabbit. She told the students that a writer needs several things to be successful; a good vocabulary, the ability to daydream and use their imagination and knowing how to do research.
She told them that looking for a fresh way to tell a story is very important. Observe the world around you, ideas can come from anywhere. Be a listener. A scrap of conversation can be the beginning of wonderful story.
"If you want to be a writer, then write every day" she told the students. Ask people whose opinions you value to give you an honest critique of your work. Look for opportunities to get your work read by professionals. Attend writer's conferences and workshops, work on the school paper, enter writing contest, whatever it takes. One of Terri's first "professional" writing jobs was for an on-line website called Bonjour Paris. She was asked to write a series of travel articles from the viewpoint of a dog. It was a challenge, and gave her a chance to expand her creative skills. She has now published two novels.
After reading a short story set in Cedar Key, she opened the floor to questions from the students. They queried her about publishers, agents and general writing skills. The students left with their heads full of ideas and possibilities for becoming a writer. | 
