If how short a time it takes for writers to snap up the 40 available seats at the Muskoka Novel Marathon (MNM) is any indication, enthusiasm for the literacy fundraiser is still increasing explosively.
This year it was 28 minutes, almost an hour less than last year.
“I take the time as a precursor to how much money we’re going to raise for literacy,” says MNM media liaison Karen Wehrstein, who teamed up with fellow writer and organizer Dawn Huddlestone to handle the flood of sign-ups last night. “Last year it dropped from about a day to an hour and a half, and our fundraising total jumped from $23,000 to $32,000. Our goal this year is to match that, and I think we’ll go higher, but I’m not going to say how much. Last year made me swear off making predictions.”
The Muskoka Novel Marathon will take place July 8-11 at the Active Living Centre in Huntsville. As well as serving as a retreat and creative hothouse for writers, it raises funds for the YMCA’s Literacy Services in Huntsville, helping adult learners with reading, writing, math and computer skills. Writers regularly travel from as far afield as the USA to participate, and the event has helped some start off literary careers
Several past participants have gone on to publish the books they started at the Muskoka Novel Marathon. The most recent is Amy Stuart. (Read about Amy’s book, Still Mine, in the Toronto Star here.)
“The writers of the Muskoka Novel Marathon never cease to amaze me,” says Adam Brown, who is entering his first year as MNM convenor. “There’s really no sense in setting expectations for a group that makes a habit of blowing them out of the water, and last night’s registration was no different. The YMCA is truly lucky to have a group so dedicated to literacy for all.”
Nancy West, who heads up the program that the MNM funds, concurs. “Every year I think the group can’t blow me away any more, and here they go again! The excitement of this group is so contagious, but it’s the best disease you could ever have. I would never put into words any suggestion of a limit to what they can achieve, because they just continue to exceed anyone’s expectations.”
For more information or to donate to Muskoka Novel Marathon 2016, visit here: www.muskokanovelmarathon.com
Still Mine was released a week ago. Still can’t believe little Amy Flynn from my lunch room is now Amy Stuart and has written a book, and not only a book, but a best selling book.