Justin A. Reynolds

Aspiring young writers will have the opportunity to brainstorm and find inspiration from other young writers, hear stories and advice from seasoned writers, and attend workshops to learn from the pros this Saturday, Nov. 8 when Lake Erie Ink and Cleveland State University (CSU) English Department host the fifth annual Teen Writers’ Symposium at CSU’s historic Mather Mansion.

Writers in grades six through 12 are invited to explore this year’s theme, Step into Your Story. Claim Your Power, in a day of creativity, community, and inspiration.

Lake Erie Ink's Teen Writing Symposium at Mather Mansion.“At Lake Erie Ink, we believe every young person has a story worth telling,” LEI program director Charisse Bailey says. “The Teen Writers’ Symposium gives teens the tools, confidence, and community to use their voices powerfully—and reminds them that their stories matter.”

Experienced guest writers and storytellers, who believe in the power of the teen voice and the stories they have to tell, will pass the mic to the next generation at the symposium. Students will have the chance to engage in conversations with authors who know the writing life, listen to a dynamic panel to spark fresh ideas and dialogue, and participate in hands-on workshops to shape their own stories and sharpen their voices.

This year’s guest writers include:

• Siaara Freeman—Acclaimed local poet and performer whose work bridges stage and page.
• Justin A. Reynolds—Celebrated for his heart-driven storytelling, he is the bestselling author of “Opposite of Always” and the graphic novel starring one of Marvel's most popular characters, Spider-Man, “Miles Morales: Shock Waves.”
• Marie Vibbert—Award-winning science fiction writer and author of “Galactic Hellcats,” whose work combines sharp wit, adventure, and imaginative worldbuilding.

  At previous Teen Writers Symposia, participants said they discovered “how to go out on a limb and share my work” and that “poetry can be short with a big impact.”

Siaara Freeman

Many participants have described the event as “a creative space for teens,” where they could connect with authors and peers who share their love of writing. Every respondent said they left inspired to keep creating—calling writing their “outlet,” “escape,” and “healthiest way to express myself.”

After the last event, when given the prompt “I learned…” eighth grader Gloria said, “How to accept criticism from yourself and others and how to write an interesting poem”

Seventh grader Marissa completed the phrase “I learned…” with “About the process of creating and publishing graphic novels."

The Lake Erie Ink Teen Writing Symposium will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Mather Mansion, 2605 Euclid Ave., 44115. The cost is $10 per student, with scholarships available. Space is limited and registration is required. Pizza provided!

The Teen Writers 'Symposium is made possible with support from Chris Garson, president of TSGAR Consulting, Ohio Arts Council and Cuyahoga Arts & Culture.