WESTPORT — Patrica Dunn started writing “Last Stop on the 6” in graduate school. It is a funny, touching novel about, according to Dunn, a “woman returning home after a long absence and trying to reconnect with people who have harbored misconceptions.” Dunn’s young self couldn’t write the book. “I knew it was inside me, but I lacked the perspective necessary to write a compelling novel.”

Dunn’s first book, “Rebels by Accident,” was a hit in the YA publishing world. In addition to being a successful novelist, Dunn is also a feature writer, a writing coach and instructor. “I often remind myself and my students of something Grace Paley said about writing. I’m paraphrasing, but she said ‘You have to really enjoy the act of writing. You have to love it because writing is hard and it is a long-term effort.’” Long-term indeed; Dunn finished writing “Last Stop on the 6” 25 after she started.

Dunn, an instructor at the Westport Writers Workshop, has advice for aspiring writers: “You need to find a community, a group that can help you see what you do well. Anyone can tell you what you’re doing wrong; you need other writers to tell you what you’re doing right and that will help you build off your success.”

She also has advice for readers who want to support the work of young writers: “Buy their books. If not for yourself, then for a friend, as a gift, whatever. The writers need your support.”

Dunn and Tessa Smith McGovern will discuss “Last Stop on the 6” and the craft of writing at the Westport Library on November 30 at 7 p.m. McGovern is an award-winning writer, teacher and writing coach. 

Visit this link to register for the program — in-person at the Trefz Forum or online — and to purchase your copy of the book. For more information, call the library at 203-291-4800.