Hi Crowlett, I guess to some degree that it was the PA thread is, a means of support and information. I initially contacted that author when I realised he was local and because I had mentioned him on here and so I thought it was fair that he knew who I was and my own writing background and experience. I also thought that knowing a lot of writing contacts in his area that could be of use to him might break the ice. The problem is treading gently and being careful to support those who are ready for help, guest books etc are a no go area. I left it open for him to get back in touch with me which he did and once the communication was open it was all good. I was lucky that he lived less than a mile from me and knew who was in a position to help him - a fantastic literary support agency, the only one of its kind in the country, public funded, whose aim is on supporting local writers and helping them move into the professional field through mentoring, training, exposure and funding. They have helped me a great deal and it felt good bringing him to their attention and vice versa. I've also passed on a play by a Publish America author to a theatre producer I've previously worked with who I knew would be interested in the material. Sometimes this PA bashing isn't all people think it is!
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