Louisiana Contemporary Women Writers

By Cristina Azzaro

Twaka BellKandace Vallory

Outline

Introduction

Brief history on Authors

Books

Discussion of one book per author

Conclusion

Introduction

Our authors Shelia Bosworth, Rebecca Wells and Christine Wiltz were contemporary female writers that are all natives of Louisiana. They were born between 1948 to 1952 and were raised in the old catholic traditions. All three of them looked up to male figures as their primary role models. They have written multiple novels that were based in Louisiana and had some type of substance abuse with their characters.

Sheila Bosworth

Born in1950 in New Orleans, La

Raised and educated in the old “Catholic School” tradition

Writings are strongly influenced by Catholicism and the South

Her childhood experience left a strong imprint on her life and her writings

Received the help of literary giant, Walker Percy, on her first novel, “Almost Innocent”

Books Include:

Almost Innocent ( 1984)

Slow Poison (1992)

Discussion

Rebecca Wells

Born in 1952 in Alexandria, La. to a father best known for his storytelling

An inspirational writer who suffers from Lyme Disease

Multi-award winning novelist known for her storytelling and acting

Frequent Writer for Seattle Weekly

Books Include:

Little Altars Everywhere (1992)

The Diving Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood (1997)

Ya Yas in Bloom (2006)

Discussion

Christine Wiltz

Born in 1948 in New Orleans, La. Also known as Chris WiltzInfluenced by her landlord, a retired policemen who gave her inside knowledge of police detective workEnjoys writing from a male’s point of viewReceived several Achievement Awards

Books Include:

The Killing Circle (1981)

A Diamond Before You Die (1987)

The Emerald Lizard (1988)

Glass House (1994)

The Last Madam: A Life in the New Orleans Underworld (1999)

Discussion

Conclusion

The Sheila Bosworth and Christine Wiltz or current living in Louisiana. Rebecca Wells is living in the Washington area. All are active in the communities and still publishing novels.