A juvenile nonfiction book destined to take readers to a place of becoming a survivor of truth will be launched on Saturday, March 19.

The novel, titled ‘A Story to Tell’ was penned by local author Ms. Julia Howson, based on lifetime confessions from the heart.

Ms. Howson said readers will be transported to places from loving, to hating, to forgiving and finally to becoming a survivor of the truth.

The book will be launched through the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Education and Culture through the Department of Culture as it continues to promote Literary Arts in the Virgin Islands.

Director of the Department of Culture, Mrs. Luce Hodge-Smith extended congratulations to Ms. Howson on her first production.

Mrs. Hodge-Smith said, “As the Department of Culture continues to promote Literary Arts in the Virgin Islands, we are extremely proud of Ms. Howson and wish her well on the launch of her book. The Department wishes to encourage Ms. Howson to keep writing and we are certain that the contents in her book tells a story that everyone can relate to.”

Ms. Julia Howson is a mother of three sons. She was born in neighbouring St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands and grew up in the British Virgin Islands.

Ms. Howson said she started writing short stories and poems at the age of 12, which stayed as a collection on a shelf for many years. She added that two years ago, with the help and encouragement from friends and family, she decided to take the art seriously by putting her words into a book and has now completed her first novel.

The official book launch ceremony will take place at the Carrot Bay Community Centre on Saturday, March 19 at 2:00 p.m.

Persons are encouraged to attend and support the book’s launch as the Department of Culture continues to support local authors and develop the Virgin Islands’ cultural heritage and traditions.

For more information, persons should contact the Department of Culture at 468-4373.