This book follows on from the success of her first novel, '50 Shades of Red White and Blue' - described as an hilarious Belfast-based parody of the successful Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy. Published by Blackstaff Press, Leesa’s first novel is also due to hit the stage in January next year. Renowned Ulster playwright Martin Lynch will cast and produce the story at the MAC between 8-27 January 2013.
And it doesn’t stop there: Leesa now writes a regular column for the the Irish Daily Mirror. Entitled ‘Here’s Me Whaaaaa?’, Leesa charts her humorous observations about everyday life in Belfast.
Leesa claims that she would never have had the confidence to write for the public, rather than just for pleasure, if she hadn’t started studying with The Open University.
“Only recently, after becoming a mother and having some time away from work - when I say ‘work’, I mean ‘paid work’, not unpaid cook/cleaner/nappy-changer/general skivvy to my two little cherubs – did I start writing again. I have been working towards a degree in English and Literature with the OU since 2009. My last module was Creative Writing and I enjoyed every minute of it. I showed pieces I had written to strangers for the first time and it gave me the confidence to start writing for other audiences.”
Speaking about the flexible learning approach of The Open University, Leesa said “The OU allows you to study around your other commitments, giving you enough time to devote to everything in your life.”
Director of The Open University in Ireland, John D’Arcy said “Leesa’s rise to fame has been immensely satisfying to watch. The fact that the OU played a small part in that makes it all the more worthwhile.”
Mr D’Arcy continued to say that Leesa’s success should motivate people who are interested in returning to study or approaching study for the first time.
“The Open University is the UK’s only university dedicated to distance learning, and provides numerous options for students to fit in their study around work or other commitments. Over 71 per cent of OU students work full or part-time during their studies, and can access course materials on their mobile phones and tablets on the move and when suits them. Returning to study can be a big move, and The Open University provides a first class opportunity for people to develop their interests, as Leesa has demonstrated in her success.”
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