Bluefield College celebrated the release of the school’s 25th edition of The Bluestone Review with a spring debut reading and reception.
The Bluestone Review is a student-produced literary magazine that features poems, short stories, fiction, creative non-fiction, children’s fiction and poetry, song lyrics, photographs, paintings, and drawings by not only Bluefield College students and alumni, but also contributors from the community and across America.
Under the direction of faculty advisor Dr. Rob Merritt, professor of English, the 2018 Bluestone Review included sections for children, fiction, poetry, art, and photography. BC students joining Dr. Merritt in compiling the 25th edition were graphic designer Nathalia Lima and editors Mary Jones and Mikaela Hurst, returning for her fourth and final year.
The reception and debut reading allowed the contributing writers and artists to not only come together to see this year’s publication for the first time, completed and ready to be distributed, but also share their works by reading their contributions or discussing the story behind their art or photography.
“I think the thing that made the event so successful was a combination of hard work and dedication to making it a worthwhile experience for all who attended,” said Jones. “I loved hearing everyone read their writing. There is something really special about getting to hear the way a piece was intended to be read.”
Bluefield College junior Samuel Kimzey commented that this was his first year as a contributor and that he is thinking about contributing again next year.
“I enjoyed being part of The Bluestone Review this year and the chance to have something published,” said Kimzey. “I also appreciate the thought and commitment that went into the reception.”
All involved with the debut of The Bluestone Review said they were pleased with the success of the event and of this year’s publication. The turnout for the reception was great, they added, and a perfect way to honor the contributors.
“All those involved with the publication should be proud of their efforts,” said Bill Skeat, a retired community member contributing to The Review for the second year in a row. “It is also nice that you allow individuals not connected with Bluefield College to participate, especially the young students.”
Jones added that she was very happy with how the debut event and The Review turned out this year.
“Making The Bluestone Review possible is a huge group effort and requires work from a lot of people with a lot of different talents,” said Jones. “I’m proud of every single one of them for making this publication possible.”