Kelli Allen has helped edit a book to benefit Joplin schools and libraries. "Storm Country," a 169-page anthology of prose, fiction and poetry, launches at 7 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar Boulevard. Allen and at least seven other contributors, including mystery writer Elaine Viets, will be there. Every cent from sales of the $10 paperback will help the tornado-damaged city. The collaborative effort included the Missouri Writers Guild, the Joplin Writers Guild and Mozark Press. Missouri Humanities Council paid for the book's printing.

What is the focus? • Storms and how they affect lives. The Midwest is a breeding ground for hideous weather.

What did you contribute? • I was fortunate enough to contribute two poems, which were selected by other members of our editorial committee. I also served as editor for the anthology along with Missouri Writers Guild President Deborah Marshall.

Were contributors all local? • No, they were from all over. We had more than 300 submissions and included works from former state poet laureate Walter Bargen and even some sixth graders.