Page 61 - Mosaic Digest Magazine

River Witch and the Power of History, Myth, and Womanhood
remain believable within their settings, allowing readers to connect with their challenges and triumphs. Whether it’s the societal constraints of the 1950s shaping Raine and Teddy in Keepers, or the prejudices and myths driving Hester in River Witch, her tales are rooted in authenticity even when layered with fantasy.
Cheryl’s novel River Witch blends historical fiction, magical realism, and themes of empowerment. The story, set in 19th-century England’s Forest of Dean, was inspired by
a real-life witchcraft trial from as late as 1906. Initially intending
to write a biographical
novel, Cheryl shifted
gears to embrace historical fantasy, which allowed
her to marry the factual influences of history with the enchanting possibilities of mythology.
Witchcraft serves as
the story’s pulse, while societal expectations
and personal resilience shape the characters, particularly Hester. Cheryl remarked that the themes of empowerment naturally unfolded as the story evolved, further underscoring her ability to weave socially resonant narratives.
Fostering the Next Generation of Writers
Beyond her literary achievements, Cheryl plays an active role in nurturing creativity
within her community.
As the founder of Dean Scribblers, she mentors young writers, encouraging them to explore their imaginations. Working with aspiring authors has been eye-opening, Cheryl shared, revealing how kids possess a “good grasp of the realities of the world” while maintaining an ability to express deep emotions, often with surprising intensity.
Her advice to budding
authors is succinct but
powerful: “Keep writing.”
Cheryl’s guidance
continues to inspire the
next generation, leaving an
indelible mark on the creative world.
Crafting Relatable and Rich Narratives
Cheryl’s stories stand out for their compelling balance of personal struggles, historical backdrops, and mythical elements. The key, she says, is to ensure characters
Cheryl’s ability to blend the personal with the historical and the mythical continues to intrigue and inspire her readership. With her unique voice and unapologetic exploration of multiple genres, Cheryl Burman’s work ensures her stories remain unforgettable treasures in the literary world.
Cheryl Burman: Award-winning author of captivating novels and inspiring community mentor in creative writing.
MOSAIC DIGEST II 60