Local authors keep it in the family

“There are so many parts to releasing a book that it can feel too overwhelming to even start.” That’s the message that ghostwriter and writing mentor Roxanne McCarty O’Kane shared with the Beerwah Writers’ Group this year.

“I began my writing career as a journalist before focusing my writing skills on ghosting from 2018. While I have written dozens of books for other people, my first book under my own name, The Mindful Author, won a gold award in the international Reader Views People’s Choice Award,” Roxanne said.

Roxanne also delivers Ignite and Write workshops on the Sunshine Coast and is in the process of writing two more books for her author series.

“Patty (Beecham) asked me to come and share knowledge on what it takes to craft an authentic, powerful nonfiction book and it was beautiful to experience this with people of all ages and skillsets who were working on their own poetry, fiction and non-fiction books,” Roxanne said.

“Libraries connected me to writing.

“They were places where I could find new worlds, creative ideas, and learn ways to write. They sparked my imagination and expanded my worldview. 

“I have now been able to host library workshops on developing storytelling skills for business owners and my son, Lincoln, and I spoke at Libraries Storyteller’s Festival last year. I love the way Libraries have evolved. I will keep being involved with Libraries in the future.” 

First time writer? Visit your local library or library.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au to reserve Roxanne’s book and other titles to get you on the road to writing.