Writing group publishes second anthology

The Mat-Su TaleSpinners writing group has recently released its second anthology, and it is hoping for similar successes that the first book enjoyed three years ago.

Tall Tales and Short Stories: An Alaskan Anthology contains works from 11 group members.

The works range from fiction to poetry to true tales, with some poetry in there, too.

The group's first book, "Between Two Rivers," was published in 2000 and the group had to do a second printing because of how well-received it was.

The TaleSpinners are hoping for similar results with Tall Tales and Short Stories.

"It's taken us a lot longer than we anticipated to raise the money to publish the book, but it's finally done," said Avril Johannes. "I think it's a classier-looking book than our first one."

It has a different flavor than the first anthology.

"We have new members since then, with different writing styles and views," Johannes said.

"Of course, we have old members who were in the first book, too. It's a nice mix of Alaska stories and adventures," she added.

The Mat-Su TaleSpinners published the book themselves, and they are also doing the distribution and promotion. Books are available at Fireside Books, Annabel's in Wasilla, the Palmer Visitors Center, Cook Inlet Books in Anchorage and at Talkeetna Gifts and Things.

"We'll also be at the Colony bazaar (Nov. 29). That bazaar has been one of the best promotional tools for our first book, and for my other books," Johannes said.