SUPERIOR – Local talent was spotlighted last week in Superior as three authors gathered at the Mineral County Library to sign their books for fans and mingle with the local literary crowd.

Among the three was an author of many books, an author of one book and many published articles and a new author to the scene. Mike Lapinski has published a wide variety of books over the years. Bill Sansom just recently published his first book, a collection of articles published in some of the most well known hunting and outdoors magazines in the country.

The third author just recently published his first book and was the only fiction writer among the three. Nolan Webber’s book, “Pride of Alar”, revolves around a Tolkien-esque fantasy world complete with mystical beings, elves, war and parallel worlds. Webber said his blend of science fiction, mysticism and fantasy is just the first in a series.

“I am still hopeful on a Christmas release for the sequel,” Webber said. “Everything I’ve done is fiction. I still have to do the cover art and illustrations.”

Webber said his inspiration for the subject matter came from his childhood. And as far influences go, his primary ones are giants in the genre.

“I grew up reading a lot of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis,” Webber said. “There are a lot of different things. Otherworldly aspects have always been in the back of my mind. It’s hard to pinpoint one thing. Honestly, I’m usually sitting at work when things hit me.”

Webber said there would be three, possibly four books in the series and he is currently wrapping up work on the second installment. He did say early reviews of his book on Amazon had been favorable.

“One of them even said they thought it should be made into a movie,” Webber said.