Print journalism student publishes first book

By Kimberly Mahle

The School of Journalism and Mass Communications and Phire and ICE Publishing celebrated the release of Covet, the debut novel by third-year print journalism student Christlo Jordan III, on March 3, at the McKissick Museum on the Horseshoe.

Gerald Hunt and Ursula Kelly, partners from Phire and Ice Publishing, USC adjunct faculty member Bertram Rantin, and members of Jordan's family were on hand for the event which was open to the public. During the ceremony, Jordan dedicated copies of his book to each of his family members, while crediting his father with encouraging him from an early age to develop his writing skills.

Jordan said his ultimate dream is to use his passion for writing in both a traditional newspaper career and through the publication of additional books. He is already close to realizing this goal as he freelances for The State newspaper through opportunities provided to him by Prof. Rantin.

"I first became acquainted with Chris two semesters ago when he was a student in my Writing for the Mass Media course at USC. I'm not at all surprised to see Chris get his work published. From day one, he struck me as someone who was serious about improving his writing. Chris doesn't talk a big game. He just gets it done, and this book is just another example of that,” said Rantin.

Jordan said he chose to attend the School of Journalism because he heard it had one of the top programs in the country and had a reputation for encouraging success. He wanted to major in print journalism because he is inquisitive and wants to “... get out there and learn about things.”

He said he appreciates the support of professors like Rantin. "He caught me early on in Journalism 201, noticed my talent and thought I could go places,” said Jordan.

Professor Rantin isn't the only one who has connected with the legitimacy in Jordan’s work.

“It’s quite exciting. I think there’s a strong connection between Jordan and his book. I think what makes it special is it comes from his heart,” said Fire and ICE partner Gerald Hunt.

A sequel to Covet is scheduled for release in January 2008.

Kimberly Mahle is a senior visual communications major. She is an intern for the SJMC in Web design. Previously, she held an internship in retail ad design at The State. Mahle has an associate degree in commercial graphics and printing from Midlands Technical College and hopes to combine her love for photography and design in her future career.