University news

A new anthology by recent students from Glasgow University’s MLitt course in Creative Writing is being launched this month.

'Sushirexia' - edited by Gordon Jenkins and Robert Smith - features 32 stories on the theme of hunger.

The varied and contrasting stories in the collection are more than just about the problems associated with diets of raw fish. The writers make a meal of the theme as they explore the pangs of hunger from love, loss, relationships, getting on and in striving for power.

All the contributors come from the renowned Masters course in Creative Writing at the University of Glasgow whose illustrious alumni include Louise Welsh, Anne Donovan, Rachel Seiffert, Laura Marney, Rodge Glass, Nick Brooks and Zoe Strachan.

The book includes stories by this year’s Sceptre Prize winner John Jennett and Curtis Brown Prize winner Ulrich Hansen.

Zoë Strachan, author of Negative Space and Spin Cycle, said: “I was very impressed by the quality and the range - both geographical and artistic - of work presented; this anthology absolutely gives the lie to the notion that creative writing courses churn out formulaic work.

“The voices here are fresh and compelling, often dazzling, and there’s an intensity of vision that bodes well for the future of contemporary fiction. Of course there are writers at different stages of the creative development, but that’s part of the excitement and the pleasure of reading. Between these pages are some of the literary prizewinners and bestsellers of the future.”

This year the Creative Writing MLitt at the University of Glasgow celebrates its 15th year and the anniversary will be marked with an exhibition at the university library.

The launch of Sushirexia, published by Freight, takes place in Waterstone's book shop, 153 Sauchiehall Street at 6.30pm on Thursday 24 June and all are invited to attend.

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Further information:
Martin Shannon, Senior Media Relations Officer,
University of Glasgow Tel: 0141 330 8593

First published: 4 June 2010