A book signing for “I Am More: Confronting the Aftermath of Sexual Assault” is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at The Avenue Christian Bookstore.

The book was written by Devan Millsong, of West Monroe, and edited by Sallie Rose Hollis, of Ruston. This is Millsong’s debut book and includes stories of hope and healing from nine sexual assault survivors – including herself.

The signing is being held in connection with Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which is observed each April.

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“I Am More” recently earned Millsong first-place honors in the general non-fiction division of the at-large category of a competition sponsored by the National Federation of Press Women. Among the judge’s comments: “A well written story with a very, very difficult subject matter … The writing was descriptive with eloquent words and straightforward, albeit painful, truths.”

In the same contest, Hollis’ editing earned second place nationally.

Millsong said she held onto her pain for 18 years before she accepted that God was trying to tell her something – that she needed to share her story and also provide a way for others to share theirs.

Among the online comments from those who have read the book:

– “This author has a story to tell and that story needs to be heard. Her engaging style of writing, her insight, and her rawness are something I wish more authors would tackle. Thank you for this book and for the courage and healing it inspires.”

– “This raw, real, and ugly truth for many is so important to talk about, and I’m thankful Devan used her voice to do that. Wonderfully written and so relatable!”

Millsong’s background includes a bachelor’s and master’s degree in journalism with secondary concentrations in public administration and speech communication, and a master’s in education. She is works in the health care field and is active in the nonprofit world.

In respect of privacy and to honor each person’s journey, all names in “I Am More” have been changed.