Thrity, Cinda Chima at Case writing conference

Thrity Umrigar, Cinda Williams Chima

Former BJ reporter Thrity Umrigar, Case Western Reserve University English professor and author of six novels set in her native India, will be the keynote speaker for Case’s writing conference May 31.

Thrity’s Facebook post:

“Ohio peeps: If you are an aspiring writer and want to gain some tips on enhancing your craft, consider signing up for Case Western Reserve University's one-day writing conference on May 31. I'm giving the keynote address, which will be followed by a day’s worth of workshops and classes and panel discussions.

“Participants include my Pulitzer prize-winning colleague Jim Sheeler, poets Mary Biddinger and Phil Metres, memoirist Joyce Dyer and other terrific writers. A splendid time is guaranteed for all.”

Also among the teaching writers is former BJ classified phone room ad-taker in the 1970s Cinda Williams Chima, a young adults romance novelist and sister of BJ retiree Mike Williams. She will talk about how to use cinematic techniques to ensnare the teen reader.

Other authors at the conference include former Sports Illustrated writer Michael Grant Jaffe, whose “Dance Real Slow” novel morphed into the “A Dry, Cool Place” movie; novelist S. Andrew Swann (pen name for Steven Swiniarski); and Cleveland University School’s Sam Thomas.