Young Hightstown Author’s Story Published in New Book

Sometimes she writes her stories by pen, other times she works at the computer. She doesn’t quite burn the midnight candle because she has to be in bed early. We’re not talking about Mary Higgins Clark, Toni Morrison or Amy Tan. This author is only 10 years old, but the young Hightstown resident’s work can now be read in a newly published book.

Claire Ernst, who attends the in Hightstown, is the author of “Standout,” a short story in the recent book, “Nicky Fifth at the Jersey Shore.”

The book is part of a series called “Nicky Fifth” by author Lisa Funari Willever and  is being distributed by Franklin Mason Press. Funari Willever is a New Jersey teacher who compiled stories from young authors throughout the state for this latest addition to the series.

The East Windsor Regional Board of Education recognized Claire at its Monday meeting and wished her well in her future literary endeavors.

“I was shocked and really excited,” Claire said about receiving the good news that her story had been selected for publication. “I also remember that [Funari Willever] said that you get a $50 check for the story!” she added with a chuckle.

“Standout” is a lighthearted piece that explores what it is like to be different. Without giving the story away, the protagonist, “Bob,” who is an original personality based on Dr. Seuss’ Sneetch characters, finds himself in a different position when compared to others. He is different, but good, Claire explained. She said many people who are “different” are not always treated nicely by their peers and are often considered standouts.

“Some kids in class gossip about someone who is different and talk about them behind their back,” Claire said. “I feel bad for these kids because I don’t feel like it’s nice to make fun of others.”

This is where “Bob” comes into the picture. His “difference” is a direct paradigm of how people are different and the character is a representation of those who may talk differently, dress differently, wear glasses or speak a little differently, Claire explained.

Claire said there is more to a person than just being labeled a “standout” because such a label does not define who a person really is. Her words of advice are simple: “You should just be yourself and not worry about what other people think about you.”

Claire submitted her work as part of the Franklin Mason Press Guest Young Author Contest and was selected by Willever. “Standout” stood out and was subsequently chosen.

“We are very pleased with the talented stories from all of our new Guest Young Authors,” Willever said. “Claire's story was fresh and unique and our judging committee was very impressed. It is an honor to include such talented children and I invite everyone to visit www.nickyfifth.com for details about the contest,” she said.

Willever said she developed the “Nicky Fifth” series after using “dull, irrelevant materials that missed a chance to excite and promote the state.”

Claire admittedly comes from an artistic family that delves into music. Claire’s mom, Lisa, said she doesn’t know where Claire gets her writing prowess from, but clearly recognized Claire for her talent. “We are all extremely proud of Claire. We are proud for many reasons; many, many reasons. Claire is never scared to try anything and not afraid of failing,” Ernst said.

Whether using pen and paper, or technologically advanced tools such as Microsoft Word, Claire said she’ll continue to compose her short stories and imaginative ideas. Like Toni Morrison, Amy Tan and Mary Higgins Clark, Claire aspires to join their ranks as an author. Perhaps then she can stay up a little later to do her writing at night.