The Indiana Writers Center will celebrate its 40th anniversary year September 20, 2019, with the launch of a new book by Barbara Shoup - a writer who has led the organization dedicated to the craft over its most vibrant decade.

A Commotion in Your Heart: Notes on Writing and Life "is a memoir about the writing life," Shoup said. Told in vignettes that focus on moments of understanding about what writing is, and is not, the book charts Shoup's journey from her childhood dream of becoming an author through the ups and downs of publishing, "as well as the joys of teaching aspiring writers of all ages," she said.

Shoup, who as of July 1 handed the executive directorship to Rachel Sahaidachny, will take on the role of the IWCs first writer-in-residence - returning to what she enjoys most, teaching and coaching writers and writing, and working on projects of her own.

The Sept. 20, 2019, event at the Schwitzer Gallery at the Circle City Industrial Complex. It will also be a fundraiser for the Writers Center, as the organization continues its mission of reaching out to people whose voices are rarely heard and furthering the goals of helping writers hone their skills and find power and joy that engaging in the creative process brings.

Join us as we celebrate the Indiana Writers Center's continued dedication to writers and writing.