Marcia Lathrop Tells Her Story, Named ‘Best New Writer’

By Lynnette Forth For The Prairie Advocate News

LANARK – Marcia Lathrop of Lanark recently had her first article published. And at a recent “Write to Publish” conference, Lathrop was selected as the “Best New Writer.” Not bad for her first time out.

“Pearl Girls: encountering grit, experiencing grace” is a book offering comfort, insight, and wisdom, written by women that have faced struggles in their lives and overcome them through the love of Christ, and deep faith. Margaret McSweeney is the main author, but the book includes stories from 65 women, including Marcia Lathrop, and well known author Debbie Macomber.

Having enjoyed writing for most of her life, Lathrop grew up with excessive abuse in her life.

“Most people who go through abuse end up angry, or use it for an excuse. I don’t fit either,” Lathrop said. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Lathrop holds Bachelor’s degrees in english and education, and a Master’s degree in education. After spending twenty years in K-12 grade classrooms, she is currently an instructor at Clinton Community College in Clinton, Iowa, where she teaches in both the developmental and humanities departments.

Lathrop strives to inspire her students, urging them to keep a journal, and write books for children. “I use my writing as a way to show my students that you never know when you will be called to write.”

Lathrop reflected on her childhood, speaking of neglect, and struggles in school.

“I can’t remember my mother ever holding me or any of my siblings for that matter. I was often told by teachers, ‘You’ll never amount to anything,’ and being referred to as ‘the stinky kid.’”

After meeting and marrying Clair, Marcia admits to struggling with the abuse she had suffered in the past, and also found herself inflicting verbal abuse on her children.

“I decided it was time to get help,” Lathrop said. With the help of therapy, and a deep love of the Lord, Lathrop hopes that telling her story will help others who face similar demons.

Following the urging of her daughter-in-law, Lathrop began the process of publishing her first book two years ago. Recently, she attended the “Write to Publish” conference which is held every year at Wheaton College, in Wheaton, Illinois, with people from all across the country attending. The workshop is mainly designed for new authors, offering workshops and speakers.

“I was probably one of the most experienced there. I have never seen a conference so centered on the new writer,” Lathrop stated. While at the conference Lathrop received the award of “Best New Writer.”

“With over 200 writers and authors in attendance, this is quite an honor,” Lathrop shared.

“I never hated my mom. I promised the Lord I would never write my story in a way to cause her pain, or make her look bad. She passed away the June before the book was released. It never brought her any more pain,” Lathrop added. “I am hoping readers will learn that joy CAN be found in spite of a violent past.”

Currently, Lathrop is working on her first novel, about a stolen child who is dealing with the emotions of finding out its parent’s true identity.

Marcia and her husband have three grown sons and 12 grandchildren. Clair Lathrop is the pastor of the 1st Brethren Church in Lanark, IL. She enjoys writing stories for the children of the church, and also works on Sunday school curriculum, and learning materials. Lathrop also enjoys sharing her story through the love of speaking, and would welcome the chance to enlighten groups of individuals high school age and up.

Marcia Lathrop may be reached at 220 E. Locust St. in Lanark, IL. She also can be reached via email at: marcia.ruth1027@gmail.com, and also has a blog at: joyafterabuse.wordpress.com.