TOPEKA (KSNT) - A local author is self-publishing the third book in her ongoing series. You may recognize her from our previous astronomy coverage, but this time, it's about a different creative outlet. Brenda Culbertson is the author of the "The EXCAVATOR" series and has just released the third addition to the saga. She goes by the pen name B.C. Culbertson. "Part of this three-piece story takes place in the Deep South, but it goes around different places," Culbertson said. "Think of Ring of Fire. What comes to mind? There are several things that could be correct. Something called Ring of Fire was out there. And so the excavator herself is out to find out what it what it is." Culbertson is a Solar System Ambassador with NASA and helps out with astronomy-related topics at Washburn University. She is very busy so 27 News asked her when she finds the time to write. "I don't know," Culbertson said. "You know, I'm so busy doing many other things. It's like when the story knocks on my head and says, 'hey, write this.' That's when I have to sit and write the story tells me and I sit and write what it says."  I-70 east in Topeka to shut down for road work next week Writing is a creative outlet for Culbertson who enjoys writing for fun. She told 27 News that her books are based on real-life experiences and real-life people, including 27 News Chief Stormtrack Meteorologist Matt Miller. "The characters in these stories, they're modeled after some real friends," Culbertson said. Culbertson has a message for those who may be on the fence about doing something they believe they may not be able to. "There are a few people who just keep wanting more and more," Culbertson said. "And it may be an example of what someone can do if they want to try to publish." For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. ...read more read less