Joyce Cowen of Townsend is 90 years old and has just written her first novel and had it published.

Joyce said that she has loved stories since she was very young and always preferred boy’s stories, because they always had more adventures.

“I loved studying composition at school, and I wrote my first story when I was 10-years-old, so I have always had a passion for writing,” Joyce said.

“I wrote a lot of poetry when I was in my 50s, but I write a lot more now that I’m older, as I have more time to.

“Over the years I’ve written other things including my life’s memoirs, after my daughter encouraged me to write them down,” she said.

Joyce said that last year she took up drawing and she was able to do all her own artwork for the book.

“I had the story line in my mind for a long time, so I thought I’ll write it and see if it’s any good and worthwhile printing,” Joyce said.

“It’s just a small novel entitled ‘Elusive Happiness’ which is based on the (fictitious) life story of a girl named Margo. It has a Christian based theme to it, and it was printed and published by Nenge Books.

“I’ve only got about 20 copies printed and most of them will go to my family; for them to keep in memory of me,” she said.

Joyce said that she wrote the book mainly for her own self-interest – to see if she could do it.

“I just wanted to get something out there that I have written and drawn. I enjoyed doing it and I’d like to share it, so that others can see and enjoy too.

“It doesn’t matter how old you are, if you have a passion and desire to do something, then why not have a go and do it.

“At 90-years-old, I’ve achieved something – that’s how I look at it,” she said.

Joyce said that she would like to encourage others, especially those in their later years of life, to also have a go.

“If you can hold a biro in your hand, get in and write something,” she said. 

Joyce said that she wanted to thank her daughter Julie Cason, friend Dulcie Reeves and members of the Baptist Church at Townsend, who encouraged and assisted her with the writing and publishing of the book