Eden boy wonder writes thrilling new book

AFTER years of telling stories, even before he could read or write, young Luc Haasbroek has finally released his latest literary offering, the novel PSI, which was launched at Eden College library last week.

The boy wonder who is 17 years old has released seven novels since he was nine, he is also a keen actor and was lead in the award winning Tree Boy. His writing is not just for fun. He has received two Citizen Book Prize nominations and the 2011 Golden Baobab Rising Writer Award for his literary works.

Luc told Berea Mail he started working on the draft for PSI on and off for three years whilst writing other short stories before he was ready to get feedback. “I do like feedback, but only when I’m ready from people I respect for their literature critique.”

He has always likes stories and admits the first stories as a little boy were mainly to entertain himself and his family. He was about 11 when he really started taking his stories seriously and “worked very hard.”

To date he said all his previous stories were a learning curve leading to PSI, which he self published.

The book is set in Durban and according to Luc, “more a drama with a supernatural element.” Aimed at teenagers and young adults, PSI has elements for older folk too.

The young hero, of his debut novel, Richard Umlilo has a dangerous gift – he can create fires with his mind. As he tries to uncover the mysteries of his power, and its link to the disappearance of his parents, he finds himself drawn to the beautiful Claire, who appears to know a lot more about his supernatural skills than he does. However, it soon becomes clear that they are not the only ones with an interest in psionics. An unstoppable killer is stalking the city, threatening to tear down all Richard cares about making PSI a thrilling drama.

“Holding a copy of book for the first time made it feel real. I feel pretty happy and proud that it has materialised.”

The highlight of his book journey has been “the act of writing everyday. “It (writing) is something I don’t think I can go without. Writing takes you to another world, for a while you can relax and it takes your mind of the difficult challenges and its also a fun thing to do during the good times,” he added.

So far his challenges include writer’s block, procrastination with the distraction of TV, the internet, going out with friends and matric!

Luc is currently concentrating on his matric school work and his duties at Head Steward. He hopes to become a writer and filmmaker so will enroll in film school next year.

For more information on the book or to purchase a copy email Luc on luchaasbroek@gmail.com or visit Amazon.com for the e-book.