For many, writing is a chore to be endured in Language Arts classes. But for junior Alexa Benson it is an art form.

Benson began writing a novel last year.

“I’ve always wanted to write a novel, partially because I love to write and partially because I have a lot of ideas. Finishing a novel has always been a big dream of mine,” Benson said.

This dream is more than a hobby to Benson. Her eventual plans for the book include publication, which she hopes comes about later this year when she finishes the novel and submits it to potential publishers. Three of Benson’s closest friends have read what she’s written so far.

“They all loved the story, and that’s a really nice feeling,” said Benson. “I know I think it’s pretty good, but when other people can’t wait to find out what happens next, I take that as a huge compliment,” she added.

Despite the book’s popularity among her friends,  Benson won’t allow herself to become overly confident.

“As a writer, I try not to take myself too seriously. If you get uppity and defensive about your work, no one will want to read it. And I definitely want people to read my work,” Benson said.

She describes the book as a love story, but not a romance novel.

As far as future writing is concerned, she is not too worried.

“Well, I’m just focusing on the one project for now. In the future I want to write a memoir about my relationship with my family, and specifically my sister,” she said. “But first, something really cool needs to happen.”