Doc Ford mystery series author to appear at Raven

Mystery writer Randy Wayne White, author of the Doc Ford series, will be at the Raven Bookstore Monday to read and sign copies of his latest novel, “Tampa Burn.”

The free event will be from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the store, 6 E. Seventh St.

In “Tampa Burn,” the 11th book in the Doc Ford series, Marion Ford has settled into the life of a gentleman marine biologist on Florida’s Gulf Coast, leaving behind his past as an assassin and spy. His cozy new life is upended when a pyromaniacal carnival freak kidnaps his son, and his estranged love, Pilar, asks for his help in rescuing the boy.

Deadline approaching for literary contest

The Kansas Authors Club is accepting entries for the 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.

The Kansas Authors Club, a non-profit organization, supports creative, technical, academic and journalistic writers. Membership is not required to enter the contest or attend the convention, but membership inquiries are welcome.