US bestselling author Annabel Smith will next week host two free writing workshops designed to bring out the best in would-be local authors.

Smith – the author of Whiskey Charlie Foxtrot, digital interactive novel and app The Ark, and A New Map of the Universe – will host workshops at Margaret River Library and Lesser Hall, adjacent to Augusta Library, on 5 and 6 November respectively.

Shire Coordinator Library Operations Kerry Darnell said the workshops provided an excellent opportunity for locals of all writing abilities to learn from a highly-accomplished author.

“These workshops are designed for everyone and are a great way for people to establish effective writing habits, build their writing ‘toolkit’, and break free of negative thought-patterns,” she said.

“Annabel is an accomplished and passionate author with a lot of experience and wisdom to share, so I’d encourage anyone looking to get motivated or be inspired to RSVP now.”

Smith holds a PhD in writing from Edith Cowan University, had a US bestseller with her book Whiskey Charlie Foxtrot, and was shortlisted for the WA Premier's Book award with A New Map of the Universe.

She has also been chair and panellist at many national and international writers’ festivals, is an Australia Council Creative Australia Fellow, teaches creative writing for the Australian Writers Centre, and regularly runs workshops at libraries and writers’ centres.

Ms Darnell said the Margaret River session (5 November, 1-4pm) would explore “how to read like a writer” and the Augusta sessions (6 November, 9.30am-12.30pm) would focus on “overcoming self-doubt and procrastination”.

“In Margaret River, Annabel will be helping people develop their expertise and confidence by reading extracts and analysing techniques from some of the world’s best writers, while Augusta will explore how to build confidence and tools for overcoming self-limiting beliefs,” she said.

Both sessions are free, open to people of all writing abilities, and will include light refreshments.

RSVP to [email protected] or 9780 5600 by 5 November.

Further queries can be directed to [email protected]

High-resolution image available for download here.