Midcoast writers interested in reading their work for an audience are welcome to submit a work-in-progress of any genre, up to 750 words, to merrybarnwritersretreat@gmail.com. Submissions will be accepted until Jan. 6, and writers will be notified by Jan. 8, if their pieces have been selected for The Sounding Board on Thursday, Jan.11.

Novelist Irene M. Drago will be the evening’s featured author. Drago’s debut novel, “Daughters of Long Reach,” was a 2018 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Winner, and led to a sequel, “The Maine Point.” More recently, “Lavinia Wren and the Sailmakers” was a 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist for Regional Fiction.

Born in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge, Irene M. Drago developed a keen interest in every kind of watercraft at an early age. Before moving to Maine, she worked for the defense department as a Russian analyst, earned a master of arts degree in Spanish language and literature, and taught at the high school and college level. Drago will read from new, yet-to-be-published work.

The Merry Barn Writers’ Retreat hosts The Sounding Board, a monthly forum for Midcoast writers of all abilities to share brief pieces, receive supportive feedback, and hear new work from a published author. 

Gathering and light refreshments at 5:30 p.m. Readings begin at 6.  Public is welcome to attend. Donations are appreciated.

The Merry Barn is located at 417 River Road, Edgecomb.