Lawrence poets to read works at Oread Books

Lawrence poets Serina Allison Hearn and Jason Wesco will read their work in observance of National Poetry Month and as part of Oread Books’ local authors series.

A book signing will follow. The event is scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Oread Books on level 2 of the Kansas Union. It is free and open to the public.

Hearn is the author of the collection “Dreaming the Bronze Girl — Poems,” published in 2002 by Mid-America Press. After immigrating to the United States in 1987, the Trinidad, West Indies, native lived in Toronto, Ann Arbor, Mich., and Princeton, N.J., before moving to Lawrence in 1996.

Wesco’s poetry collection, “Between the Letters,” was published in 2002 by his own 219 Press. His poems also have appeared in Coal City Review, I-70 Review, Potpourri and the Kansas City Star, which named him the emerging writer to watch in the metro area for 2003. the Perry resident organizes the Lawrence Poetry Series, a collection of April readings by area poets.

Club launches 2004 literary contest

The Kansas Authors Club is accepting entries for its 2004 literary contest.

Writers of every age and genre are invited to submit their best prose and poetry, as well as entries for a special themed contest, “What’s Write with Kansas.” Entries must be postmarked by June 19.

Guidelines for youth and adult contest categories can be viewed at www.skyways.org/orgs/kac/contest.html or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Tracy Simmons, 1018 S.E. 41st Terrace, Topeka 66609.

Monetary prizes will be awarded at the centennial convention Oct. 22-24 in Topeka.