By Michael Butler

Tallassee’s Steve Winslett has put out his first book, a novella, “The Wall: An Allegory.” Winslett is a Tallassee High School graduate and alumnus of Auburn University.

“Creating and releasing a book is kind of surreal,” said Winslett. “The world you created goes public and now is out there for people to love or hate, to care or not to care.”

Winslett added in a press release that the book offers readers “a deeply reflective and symbolic exploration of truth, belief, and the courage it takes to question what we think we know.”

In addition to being a writer, Winslett is also a graphic designer. He and his wife have two children, Timothy and Hannah.

“This story began as a Sunday School lesson, seeking to explain the Gospel to a young audience. Years later it evolved into a deeper human story of discovery, tragedy, and new beginnings.

“After the message, the most important thing was creating the characters. They take on a life of their own. You could almost ask them how they should respond and what direction the plot should go. It is a collaboration between author and character. When the characters are properly fleshed out, you could pluck them out of this book and place them in any scenario, and you know exactly what they would say or do.”

Winslett feels his work is ideal for readers who appreciate “symbolic fiction and meaningful narratives.”

“I already have ideas for a follow-up,” he said. “Of course that depends on how this one does. There are so many unanswered questions in this book, hints of the past, and possibilities for future adventures. All character driven and dancing around in my head.”

The book is available on Amazon in paperback (https://tinyurl.com/42mfuvh9) and digital (https://tinyurl.com/y8y336r9) formats.