Creative Writing Student Publishes Debut Novel

Writers' Program Student Success

Former creative writing student Nikki Barthelmess’s debut young adult contemporary novel, The Quiet You Carry, will be published in March 2019.

The book follows 17-year-old Victoria, who, after she’s kicked out of her toxic family, must contend with a chaotic foster home, dodge prying eyes at school, hang onto her college dreams, and somehow protect the stepsister she left behind.

Of her time in the Writers’ Program, Nikki says, “Through taking Amanda Gersh’s class, I learned to think critically about the YA novels I loved and what drove me to them. Specifically, I learned more about storytelling and how to craft better dialogue. Amanda challenged me and helped me to grow as a writer. I’m grateful for all of her help!”