Southwest Middle School participated in the Young Writers&8217; Conference on March 18 at Bethany Lither College in Mankato.

Thirty seventh- and eighth-grade students heard keynote speaker, author/ illustrator Rick Chrustowski, discuss his research, writing and illustrating techniques. He wowed the audience with experiences turned into stories and even demonstrated how he illustrates.

After the opening program, students left for their three different breakout sessions. On offer were &8220;The Weight of a Story,&8221; &8220;Your Hero&8217;s Journey,&8221; &8220;History Mystery,&8221; &8220;Pick me a Poem&8221; and &8220;Think Outside the Box.&8221;

During lunch, students could view and purchase books, some written by the presenters. There was also a book signing so students could actually talk to these authors.

It was a busy, informative, and creative day. All of the students returned with new ideas and even some new works in progress.