Griffith University communications graduate Michael Batchelor has just had his first novel published and hopes his readers will be persuaded by its message — not to take drugs.
The Red Chilli tells the tale of a young high school student who becomes embroiled in the dark underbelly of drugs in a small Queensland town.
“The culture, language and attitude of my adolescent peers are the inspiration for the novel,’’ Michael (pictured, below) said.
“The Red Chilli addresses the issues of illegal drugs, but it also delivers the message to young adults without being too preachy or condescending.
“By having a protagonist who experiences the conflict many high school students experience undergo with regards to drugs, the reader will be able to relate to the character and his apprehension towards the underground drug scene.”
Since he graduated with a Bachelor of Communication at the Gold Coast in 2011, Michael has been writing novels and trying to break into the publishing market.
“Studying journalism and creative writing helped me find my voice and hone my writing style and I hope this book will lead to more,’’ he said.
Griffith University creative writing lecturer Dr Sally Breen said she recalledMichael’s passion for writing in class.
“We’re very excited here at Griffith to hear of Michael’s publishing success and see it as testament to the vibrancy of our writing program and the talent of our graduates.
“I am thrilled to see that his dedication and efforts have come to fruition. I’m sure we will see more from him in the future.”
This is Michael’s third novel and the first to be published.
The Red Chilli is published by the Horizon Publishing Group.