Op Eds

     After a long and rewarding career as an educator and administrator, it made sense that Mary Slimmer's first novel would be aimed towards children.

     "The Lighthouse in Grove Park" is about a group of students who have lunch with their principle. During lunch, the principal shows the students some keys. One of the students talks the other students into getting the keys without the principal knowing it and exploring in the school basement. The novel is a tale of mystery and friendship.

     Slimmer was born in Oswego but, being from a military family, she moved around a lot. She has now lived in Oswego for about 35 years. She taught elementary school in the Oswego City School District for 14 years and was a principal for seven.

     Ten years ago Slimmer retired, but her love of teaching helped spark a new interest; writing.
     "I taught children how to write and I wanted to experience writing for myself," she explained, "I also wanted to experience the journey of writing a book. I believe in the power of words and I wondered if I could write a story that was enjoyable yet believable."

     Originally Slimmer started writing an autobiography, but eventually felt it was not the right choice for her. So she decided to write about what she knows best.
     "I reflected on my last couple years in education as a principle and loved when the students would have lunch with me in my office. So, I built the novel around those wonderful times sharing conversations with students."

     It is obvious that even in retirement, the teacher in Slimmer never disappeared. She currently teaches writing workshops to children and adults, and Slimmer credits her writing group as being a huge motivator to getting her novel completed and published. Her advice to aspiring writers is, "keep journals and explore various genres of writing while journaling. Also, joining a writer's group is so inspiring and encouraging."

     Slimmer will be the guest of honor at a discussion and book signing at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 15, at the river's end bookstore. "The Lighthouse in Grove Park" can be purchased there or online at amazon.com.