At just the age of 17 Moon Haynes is a published writer.
Moon, a senior at Thurgood Marshall Learning Center says she's always enjoyed writing and it's kind of therapeutic for her.
Her writing caught her creative writing teacher's attention, Mr. Britton.
"Moon knew I taught creative writing and had previously let me read a poem that was written during free time in a different class. Because of that, I knew Moon liked writing and wrote very well. So, when I became aware of the summer program, I encouraged Moon and several students to apply. I'm very excited to celebrate Moon's accomplishment," said Mr. Britton.
He encouraged her to participate in The Young Emerging Writers (YEW) Summer Internship Program. The YEW Summer Internship Program is composed of students ages 15-19 who applied and were interviewed for the privilege of participating in this selective paid internship program. Moon was one of the chosen for the program.
She entered some of her pieces to be considered for the program's literary magazine The Atlas. Not one, but three of her pieces were selected to be published in the magazine.
"I knew at least one would get chosen but I didn't think three would. I was very excited but also very nervous," said Moon.
On Thursday, August 17, there will be a two-part launch party for the latest issue of the magazine.
Moon will get to read her pieces at the parties. Moon's personal life has inspired her writing and the pieces that are included in the publication.
"Yeah I have been through some terrible things but I have persevered through them and I have grown as a person and I hope that's what people take away from reading my pieces," said Moon.
The event will start at 5 p.m. (doors at 4:30 p.m.), with a family and friends reception at the Rock Island Public Library Community Room (401 19th St.), where YEW interns will give a brief reading of their work.
Then, at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7), the party will move down the street to Rozz-Tox (2108 3rd Ave., Rock Island).
Pictured: Moon Haynes