鈥淚鈥檓 very proud of the third book,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 stuck with it. It was a trilogy that I didn鈥檛 even know I was starting.鈥�
Now with the release of Coven of the Worm Moon, Vande Zande has completed the final installment of the Michigan-based Orphan Island Trilogy. Bringing a six-year writing journey full circle. The novel follows the Fletcher family as they once again confront supernatural forces across Michigan, while continuing the themes of family and personal struggle that have defined the novels.
For Vande Zande, the significance of the book extends beyond just finishing a story. As an active author that continues to write and promote his work, he brings firsthand experience into Delta鈥檚 English and creative writing classrooms.
鈥淚 don鈥檛 think anybody should be teaching anything creative that they鈥檙e not actively involved in,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 think students like that their professor is walking the walk.鈥�
While readers only see the finished product on bookstore shelves, Vande Zande said the greatest lessons often come from everything that happens before publication.
Over the course of writing the three novels, he developed realistic routines, revision skills and marketing strategies that he now hopes to share with students, particularly those pursuing advanced creative writing courses at Delta.
He encourages prospective writers to focus on slowing down and developing their craft before rushing toward publication.
鈥淎 lot of students want to be published right away,鈥� Vande Zande said. 鈥淏ut writing takes time, you have to stick with it and be comfortable taking criticism.鈥�
He feels his experience gives him the unique ability to meet students where they are in their writing journey, from beginners learning storytelling fundamentals to advanced writers pursuing publication opportunities of their own.
Some former students have already gone on to publish books and pursue professional writing careers. Others have discovered that creative writing remains an important personal outlet alongside other career paths.
Either outcome, he said, can be meaningful.
As for what's next, Vande Zande plans to spend time promoting the complete trilogy rather than beginning another novel. He is currently appearing at events throughout Michigan to introduce readers to the series and celebrate the release of Coven of the Worm Moon. For his students, and , the lessons will continue.
鈥淪tudents are getting someone that is actively involved in writing and publishing,鈥� he said. 鈥淔or the ones who are ready, that experience matters.鈥�
By Mikaila Bluew, writer & editor
