A new short story collection for young people titled Fesul Darn has brought authors connected with the ARFOR region together to provide a glimpse of life and work in the area. The collection has been published by Atebol and has been created as part of LLwyddo’n Lleol 2050’s work on the project with the aim of inspiring young people and showcasing the talent and creativity that is to be found in ARFOR’s communities.
The collection includes contributions from Heiddwen Tomos, Alaw Fflur Jones, Sioned Bowen, Gareth Evans-Jones, Manon Steffan Ros, Andrew Teilo, Lleucu Non and Morfudd Owen. The stories explore themes such as identity, belonging, career aspirations and the challenges faced when living in rural Wales in the modern age.
In a statement, the author Sioned Bowen from Llangfihangel-ar-Arth in Carmarthenshire said that Fesul Darn is a unique opportunity for new voices to be heard:
“It’s amazing that opportunities like this exist for young writers. Being able to write about experiences that relate to me and my community has been a privilege, and it’s made me feel like I’m part of something bigger. It’s important for young people to see their lives reflected in literature – their experiences and ambitions are real and valid. I hope this book will show others that it is possible to succeed without leaving your community.”
Lleucu Non, who comes from Dyffryn Nantlle in Gwynedd and is one of the authors that in included in the collection:
“This book is proof that exciting new stories are being told in Welsh – and that it’s possible to do that from our own communities. It shows that young writers can thrive without having to leave the places they call home.”
Schools in ARFOR areas have received copies of Fesul Darn, as well as an educational resource pack which includes activities based on the book. Hard copies have also been distributed to libraries across ARFOR counties. You can get a copy of the e-book of the collection for free by following this link, and there is also an audio book available by following this link.
