The Temecula Valley Writers and Illustrators, a recently established nonprofit, has announced the release of its two-volume anthology, “Stay Awhile: Scenes From Temecula Valley” and “Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley.”
The self-published anthology, released Sept. 12, is a collection of 30 stories, two poems and 37 illustrations created by regional authors and artists.
Among the contributors to the anthology is Stacia Deutsch, author of more than 300 children’s books and a newcomer to Temecula. Deutsch is also treasurer of the Temecula Valley Writers and Illustrators, which was formed this year “to support and encourage the local creative community in their endeavors and provide a platform for personal and professional growth,” according to a news release.
The group holds monthly meetings with guest speakers, sponsor spoken word and poetry slams and gives artists and writers a space to gather and share knowledge.
“The amalgamation of written and visual arts that we have gathered in one place is ridiculously exciting,” Trond Hildahl, the nonprofit’s secretary, said in the news release. “We have best-selling authors rubbing elbows with people taking their first art class. There are award-winning artists commiserating with writers who received their first rejection. And the sheer amount of energy all these creatives have – it’s exhilarating to be around.”
Following its Sept. 12 release, the anthology will be featured at Temecula’s Cartoon-A-Paloozah, an event featuring art, jewelry, anime, cartooning and comics 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Civic Center Quad and Conference Center, 41000 Main St. Admission to the family-friendly event is free.
For information about the Temecula Valley Writers and Illustrators, go to TemeculaValleyWI.com.
