Tales from a Vesparado
'Tales from a Vesparado' is the fifth selection of poetry, lyrics and short stories that propel and showcase Ged the Poet from a humble wordsmith to story writing, ukulele playing troubadour. Inside you will find stories with a poetic observation and rhyme that bring fun, surprise and passion with his inimitable humour is always evident and thought with thought provoking subject matter throughout. There is something for everyone in here!
South Buffalo Hooligans
We follow Tommy Quinn and a group of 2nd grade kids growing up in St. Thomas Aquinas parish in South Buffalo. They experience all of life's ups and downs and go from 7-20 years old.
Greed Sloth Arrogance and Shame
Near omnipotent tyrants returned from the dead. Cyborg ennui. Human brains in alien pets. Alien invasions through capitalism. Self-dissection and pleasure nanomachines. Slave-owning robots. Squirrels and pigeons at war. All that and more in these darkly comic science fiction stories of greed, sloth, arrogance, and shame from J.I. Greco, author of Take the All-Mart! and Yuki Feldman: Licensed Space Pirate. This collection includes: MONDO HEETZE - He thought he was getting his brain transplanted into a nearly immortal, indestructible human body. What he got instead was his brain put into the body of an alien pet, and a new job as a rat catcher aboard an alien ship. AMERICAL SUICIDAL - Week in, week out, the desperate come to "Final Exit" to kill themselves in front of a world-wide audience. But when a knock-off Russian suicide show threatens to topple "Final Exit" from its number one spot, producer Jack Brasca knows he's got his work cut out for him to keep his show on top, and he's willing to do whatever it takes. WHEN THE SQUIRRELS AND PIGEONS HAD A WAR - The squirrels and the pigeons in the back yard have always provided entertainment to the house cats... especially now that their long simmering feud has erupted into a full-scale war. EDGY AND THE VOID - Mind-linked teens taunt a gang of cyborg killers into a midnight chase through a future Pittsburgh. THE CREDITORS - The aliens have landed, offering easy credit terms. SECOND UNIT - A second unit film crew heads out to the stars in an old tug to take some pretty pictures... even if it ends up killing them. DISSECTING HENRIES - A man becomes obsessed with getting to know himself, by dissecting his own clones. THE ROAD TO SENILITY - After a long and event-filled life, a one-hundred-and-two year old cyborg mercenary travels to Jupiter intending to end it all. But as he floats in orbit he see a face below in the gas giant's clouds. For anyone else, it would be a religious experience. For him, it's a sign that there still might be miracles to exploit... for cold hard cash. SALONA REX - A deposed, near-omnipotent tyrant escapes from her prison to wreak havoc on the galaxy that spurned her. HELMET TIME - His parents sold him into alien slavery -- and his life hasn't gotten any better since. Now he spends his days doing chores and dangerous work for his owners, his only respite time in a virtual reality.
Transactions with the Fallen
In this new collection of short stories, author Michael Elcock explores a variety of inner worlds and lived experiences: survival and betrayal in Germany after World War II ... life in the Scottish highlands ... trouble with army ants ...Michael Elcock's stories enchant, disturb and remind us of the many worlds we inhabit. Touching on intimate moments and interactions, not a lot happens in these intertwined tales, and that is precisely their strength. A young man sits with an older woman one evening and learns about love. A soldier coaxes music out of a battered piano in an attempt to stay alive. Transactions with the Fallen is a study of human relationships told with an exacting eye for detail and the resonant moment.---Eve Joseph, Griffin Poetry Prize Winner, 2019There's a lot to be learned from other people's childhoods-and from other people's adulthoods too, if they've been lucky enough to have one. When they're luckier still, there's a lot to be learned from other people's imaginations. In this remarkable book of stories, Michael Elcock offers us the fruits of all three: a rich, multifaceted childhood, a robust, thoughtful adulthood, and a lively, athletic imagination.---Robert Bringhurst, author, poet, and recipient of the British Columbia Lieutenant Governor's Award for Literary Excellence
The Redeeming of Pumpkin Ridge
"The Redeeming of Pumpkin Ridge" is a novel based on the true story of a young eleven-year-old city boy who spends the summer vacationing on his aunt and uncle's farm in a small southern country town called Pumpkin Ridge. The young boy eagerly awaits the end of summer and the return of his parents to Pumpkin Ridge to take him away from the dull, unexciting, uneventful, and seemingly pre-historic country life, and back to his home in the city. And then he could get back to the enjoyments of life - indoor plumbing, electricity, concreted streets and sidewalks, next-door neighbors, corner drug stores and grocery stores, police cars, fire trucks, and the old hot tamale man peddling his hot tamale cart up and down the sidewalk. But, when his parents returned to Pumpkin Ridge, they brought with them news so shocking and so devastating that it all but ripped his young heart out; and his whole world was completely torn apart. The book centers on the young boy's life from the age of eleven through high school, and the perils, pitfalls, trials, and tribulations he encounters year after year after year. But, in the end - a miracle happens!
Pocket Diary
As I traveled, I collected pebbles, in all shapes and sizes, in shades of rainbow but never colourless, good and bad, trading stories with fellow travellers and shopkeepers.I never shared them until I stopped collecting and began writing, on paper.But Pocket Diary is always there, in my bag, to add and collect more.
Short Story Collection
Journey through humour and heartache in this eclectic collection of short fiction. From a miner's grim reality to a dentist's bungled procedure and a soldier confronting his enemy, these stories shine a raw light on the human experience. Feel the chilling isolation of 'Behind Closed Doors I Hide' and the bittersweet nostalgia of 'It's Never Too Late.' With an array of voices and perspectives, author Pearl Marie Murdoch bears witness to hardship and hope, trauma and transcendence. Whether tragic or comic, her brief tales leave an indelible imprint. Let Murdoch captivate you with her candid snapshots of life in all its messy glory. Candid, poignant, and peppered with regional dialect, this compilation offers a vibrant cross-section of characters. See familiar struggles through fresh eyes in this collection of provocative vignettes.
Seventeen Going Under
Singer/songwriter Sam Fender has become a musical phenomenon with his passionate songs about growing up in England's North-East. Peter White has used those special songs as inspiration to create a collection of heart-warming short stories. Seventeen Going Under is all about the trials and tribulations of growing up, with teenage anger and regret but also hope for the future. In Leave Fast, three young friends have to deal with the tragic death of their best mate and what to do with their lives. A chance meeting with a homeless guy changes one of them forever. Spit of You centres on the complexities of family life, with a difficult father-son relationship contrasting with a wonderfully close bond between nana and her grandson. The Dying Light is the tale of a desperate young man determined to take his own life who finds a reason to live. At the heart of Paradigms are the mental and physical effects of school bullying. Rhys Mackie is a beloved teacher who rails against the bullying he discovers and does something about it. Will We Talk is a quirky tale of two young 20-somethings who meet at a bar but things don't quite go to plan. In Mantra, Sophie Lyall believes looking out for life-changing windfalls, or trying to impress others, means you can miss the great things happening right now and the gift of life that gets taken for granted. Angel in Lothian begins with the vibrant, imaginary dream sequence of a young schoolboy that continues throughout his life.
Chicago Street Corner Stories
Roger Wright's Chicago Street Corner Stories starts with a kind of spiritual walking tour in Graceland Cemetery to hear what the ghosts are saying. Wright's descriptions of seasons and vignettes, interspersed with remembrances of people, both famous and personal, who have influenced the rich history and diverse culture of the great city of Chicago, immerse the reader in a truly personal experience. As Chapter 2 introduces the love stories all around these seemingly ordinary corner hangouts and sidewalks and streets, nostalgia meets the present, and introspection reveals lessons learned and imparted. The third chapter hints of fears and loss, but overwhelmingly finds ways to hope, to heal, and to face whatever comes with unblinking knowledge that life itself is a blessing and that our stories are proof of its abundant benefit.
Seventeen Going Under
Singer/songwriter Sam Fender has become a musical phenomenon with his passionate songs about growing up in England's North-East. Peter White has used those special songs as inspiration to create a collection of heart-warming short stories. Seventeen Going Under is all about the trials and tribulations of growing up, with teenage anger and regret but also hope for the future. In Leave Fast, three young friends have to deal with the tragic death of their best mate and what to do with their lives. A chance meeting with a homeless guy changes one of them forever. Spit of You centres on the complexities of family life, with a difficult father-son relationship contrasting with a wonderfully close bond between nana and her grandson. The Dying Light is the tale of a desperate young man determined to take his own life who finds a reason to live. At the heart of Paradigms are the mental and physical effects of school bullying. Rhys Mackie is a beloved teacher who rails against the bullying he discovers and does something about it. Will We Talk is a quirky tale of two young 20-somethings who meet at a bar but things don't quite go to plan. In Mantra, Sophie Lyall believes looking out for life-changing windfalls, or trying to impress others, means you can miss the great things happening right now and the gift of life that gets taken for granted. Angel in Lothian begins with the vibrant, imaginary dream sequence of a young schoolboy that continues throughout his life.
An Orchid in Winter and it's sequel A Rose in Summer
An Orchid in Winter After the defeat of the French in 1940, a village in the foothills of the Pyrenees is in the claws of the Germans. Against this backcloth, Nanouche, a beautiful village girl, falls in love with Hans, a German officer. Can their love survive? A Rose in Summer It's post Second World War Paris. This riveting sequel explores Nanouche's failed attempt to find her daughter Rose who is in two minds about being discovered. On 'An Orchid in Winter' ... 'Gunner unravels a skilfully woven tale into denouement with this long-awaited sequel to the award-winning 'An Orchid in Winter'. Jan Moran Neil 'This is a pacey (and occasionally racey!) romantic novel set during the German occupation in France. It seems to recreate, insofar as we can know, some of the tensions that must have existed between the invaders and the invaded and also within both groups.' Peter Keeble Amazon Customers: 'An echo of traumatic events in a small village in occupied France during the second world war; tense, dreadful to imagine, yet moving and with moments of light and human goodwill.' 'Refreshingly different from other books about the war, this grips and drags the reader along willingly, eager to follow the heroine Nanouche . I found it surprisingly poignant and very readable.' 'What happens next? I'm eager to read the next book.' 'A lovely, heart-warming story. I really hope there is going to be a follow up book! I want to know what happens next.!' 'A love story like no others, deep and passionate, where will it end? Cannot wait for the next book.' 'Gripping story and leaves you eager for a follow -up book.' Jennifer Laghi
An Orchid in Winter and it's sequel A Rose in Summer
An Orchid in Winter After the defeat of the French in 1940, a village in the foothills of the Pyrenees is in the claws of the Germans. Against this backcloth, Nanouche, a beautiful village girl, falls in love with Hans, a German officer. Can their love survive? A Rose in Summer It's post Second World War Paris. This riveting sequel explores Nanouche's failed attempt to find her daughter Rose who is in two minds about being discovered. On 'An Orchid in Winter' ... 'Gunner unravels a skilfully woven tale into denouement with this long-awaited sequel to the award-winning 'An Orchid in Winter'. Jan Moran Neil 'This is a pacey (and occasionally racey!) romantic novel set during the German occupation in France. It seems to recreate, insofar as we can know, some of the tensions that must have existed between the invaders and the invaded and also within both groups.' Peter Keeble Amazon Customers: 'An echo of traumatic events in a small village in occupied France during the second world war; tense, dreadful to imagine, yet moving and with moments of light and human goodwill.' 'Refreshingly different from other books about the war, this grips and drags the reader along willingly, eager to follow the heroine Nanouche . I found it surprisingly poignant and very readable.' 'What happens next? I'm eager to read the next book.' 'A lovely, heart-warming story. I really hope there is going to be a follow up book! I want to know what happens next.!' 'A love story like no others, deep and passionate, where will it end? Cannot wait for the next book.' 'Gripping story and leaves you eager for a follow -up book.' Jennifer Laghi
Pick Your Potion
Magic, mystery, and the macabre collide in Pick Your Potion, a mesmerising collection of genre-blending fantasy, science-fiction, and horror stories from award-winning Australian author Ephiny Gale.The 26 weird tales in Pick Your Potion are female-centric, mostly queer, and always intriguing.Within these pages, you'll find: A deadly and addictive magical board game.A time-loop demon apocalypse.A dimension-jumping cruise ship.A competition to win a magical orchard.A collection of murder victims' last texts.Heartwarming, heart-stopping, and heartbreaking in turn, Pick Your Potion offers a full apothecary of speculative stories to serve the curious reader.
Songs on the Radio
In this first short story collection "Songs on the Radio" author Amanda Hogan has created 14 short stories using the concept of each story being inspired by one song. Included are a variety of stories in both adult and Young Adult genres like romance, family drama, historical fiction, romantic thriller, a boxing sports romance, and a modern-day retelling of "Howards End". Each story is also titled by the song that inspired it.
Julio
A new short story from the mind of author Garrett Francis.Julio's supposed to be on a field trip with the rest of his sixth grade class. Instead, he's standing at a bus stop with his hood up so that bystanders can't see the damage his mother has done to his cheek with a crowbar.And once he gets on that Richmond city bus, he embarks on a field trip of the self, reflecting upon the journey he, his mother and his brother have on thus far, and weighing what options he as an individual has next."Julio: Conqueror of the Crowbar" is a gritty story that touches upon themes of immigration, poverty and race, but also brings into focus what it is we as a society choose to thrust before our kids and label "greatness."If you enjoy short stories from any of the following authors, "Julio: Conqueror of the Crowbar" might just resonate with you: Caitlin Horrocks, Adam Johnson, Alice Walker, Raymond Carver, Colum Mccann, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jim Harrison, Karen Russell."Julio: Conqueror of the Crowbar" is a story from Strays Like Us, a collection of ten standalone short stories exploring what it means to grow up in America.
Witness
A Best Book of the Year: The New York Times Book Review, NPR, The New Yorker, Los Angeles Times, Oprah Daily, Elle, The Boston Globe, Kirkus Reviews, BookPage, Electric Literature, Library Journal, Commonweal Magazine Winner of the Maya Angelou Book Award. A Finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction, the Aspen Words Literary Prize, and the Kirkus Prize Long-listed for the Joyce Carol Oates Prize, the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction, and the Story Prize A Must-Read: The New York Times, NPR, New York, The Guardian, Los Angeles Times, Today Show, The Boston Globe, Shondaland, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Chicago Review of Books, Essence, Literary Hub, The Millions, The Root "Exhilarating . . . Brinkley is a writer whose versatility knows no boundaries . . . A gift of the highest quality." --Mateo Askaripour, The New York Times Book Review From National Book Award finalist Jamel Brinkley, Witness is an elegant, insistent narrative of actions taken and not taken. What does it mean to really see the world around you--to bear witness? And what does it cost us, both to see and not to see? In these ten stories, each set in the changing landscapes of contemporary New York City, a range of characters--from children to grandmothers to ghosts--live through the responsibility of perceiving and the moral challenge of speaking up or taking action. Though they strive to connect with, stand up for, care for, and remember one another, they often fall short, and the structures they build around these ambitions and failures shape their futures as well as the legacies and prospects of their communities and their city. In its portraits of families and friendships lost and found, the paradox of intimacy, the long shadow of grief, and the meaning of home, Witness enacts its own testimony. Here is a world where fortunes can be made and stolen in just a few generations, where strangers might sometimes show kindness while those we trust--doctors, employers, siblings--too often turn away, where joy comes in snatches: flowers on a windowsill, dancing in the street, glimpsing your purpose, change on the horizon. With prose as upendingly beautiful as it is artfully, seamlessly crafted, Jamel Brinkley offers nothing less than the full scope of life and death and change in the great, unending drama of the city.
The Winkle Twinkle Man
With each purchase of The Winkle Twinkle Man, you will be supporting The World Friendship Flag's mission to bring unity through compassion by helping to end childhood hunger. Your contribution will make a meaningful difference in the lives of children worldwide, fostering a future filled with hope and opportunity. Visit God's Junkman and The World Friendship Flag Project for more information on how you can join us in this important endeavor. Together, let's light up the world with empathy and kindness.
The Winkle Twinkle Man
With each purchase of The Winkle Twinkle Man, you will be supporting The World Friendship Flag's mission to bring unity through compassion by helping to end childhood hunger. Your contribution will make a meaningful difference in the lives of children worldwide, fostering a future filled with hope and opportunity. Visit God's Junkman and The World Friendship Flag Project for more information on how you can join us in this important endeavor. Together, let's light up the world with empathy and kindness.
Tales from the Far Side
Tales From the Far Side is a delightful collection of imaginative, eclectic short stories, some featuring humorous, chatty animals, not to mention mouthy inanimate objects. Many take place during cataclysmic historical events, such as the 2012 onslaught of Hurricane Sandy and relate to timely issues such as racism, alcoholism, and attitudes toward people with disabilities. Featuring Navajo code talkers, Tuskegee Airmen, hibakusha (disfigured atom bomb victims), and artificial intelligence (AI), this thought-provoking book is sure to captivate anyone who relishes a good, albeit far out, story.
White Heart
The short-story, is one of the most important literary subgenres in the world literature, despite its relative youth. This was influenced by western and literary concepts and tendencies, as well as the contemporary industrial and mechanized environment. This book "White Heart" collects a selection of short stories from contemporary fiction that were written in English by Uzbek fiction writer Iroda Zokir qizi.
Short Stories Compiled by Farmer John
A book of short stories compiled and written by Farmer John, a real live old-timer from Carroll, County, VA. Some stories happened to him or his family. Others are just stories about the good ol' days when towns were small and you knew pretty much everyone.
Evel Knievel Jumps the Snake River Canyon
It's 1974 and ten-year-old Pick Patterson is stuck for the summer in Twin Falls, Idaho, with his bossy Grandma Grace and his unemployed, easy-going Uncle Buddy. When Evel Knievel comes to town to jump the Snake River Canyon, Pick is caught up in the excitement as the sleepy little community is awakened and invaded by the worldwide press, motorcycle gangs, drugged-up hippies, and spectators who've come to witness the historic event.For the 50th Anniversary of Evel Knievel's jump, author Kelly Jones brings readers a new edition of Evel Knievel Jumps the Snake River Canyon, originally published in 2014.Now including stories from those who were there in 1974: Steve Swope, the motorcycle enthusiastJohn Killen, the rookie reporterDavid Whitehead, the phone company guyCharles Cosgriff, the golfing buddyRita Delaney, the liaison's wifeJim Jones, the Evel attorneySue Swenson Cummins, the cowgirl detective
Through the Wringer
We came up with this title for an anthology of ten stories from the pages of Pulphouse Fiction Magazine and then had to look up the definition of the word "wringer." Seems a wringer (easily misspelled as "writer") used to be an instrument of torture to squeeze stuff. Yup, that fit. So ten writers in ten stories put their characters through wringers in one form or another in these pages, and it turned out honestly, fantastic fun to read. And amazing how all the stories fit a title we had to look up.
Rogue Dentist
Rogue Dentist is a short story based on my personal relationship I had with my dentist during the early 90s. The story centres around the economic climate at the time, and how the dentist felt betrayed by his bank manager. The dentist embarks on a mission of revenge to get back at the bank manager and ruin him forever.
The Weight of Sin
"Don't expect light-hearted tales of tea shops, campsites and castles, 'Weight of Sin' is more Nick Cave than Nik Kershaw, full of dark, twisted humour and strange journeys into a myriad of possible yesterdays, todays, and tomorrows... A collection of stories both humorous and horrific, brimming with stygian absurdity and unexpected twists, Weight of Sin will haunt your dreams long after you've finished reading the final page...Whether it's the pathos of a fading music hall star reflecting on his career, the droll elderly couple who harbour a dire secret that has locked that in an inescapable routine, the mysterious civil servant in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, or the not-too-distant, dystopian future UK that's chillingly easy to visualise, these tales are a rare and devilishly delicious delight to be savoured and enjoyed, but beware, they're not for the faint of heart or those of a nervous disposition. Read them if you dare, but don't say that we didn't warn you... "A delight to read - but don't let that fool you into expectations of a collection of lightweight, heart-warming, feel-good fuzz. This writing has depth and darkness."
Jewish Fairy Tales and Legends
Discover a captivating world of Jewish folklore with Jewish Fairy Tales and Legends by Gertrude Landa. This enchanting collection draws from the rich tapestry of the Talmud and Midrash, presenting stories that are both entertaining and enlightening. Each tale is steeped in the enduring themes of survival and dignity that define Jewish history, all while being laced with gentle humor. Landa masterfully weaves familiar fairy-tale motifs with unique cultural insights, offering readers a profound understanding of Jewish tradition and resilience. This book is a treasure trove of wisdom and wit, providing timeless lessons and joy to readers of all ages.
Taking Flight
Avi has had quite a life. He and his wife, Sara, have lived and traveled all over the world, including some exotic--and occasionally less than hospitable--destinations. He's also met and befriended some colorful characters, including a man who can get you anything (for a price, of course), a tribal chieftain, an enterprising shopkeeper, a father who mourns a daughter lost at sea, a particularly hard-nosed and nosy businesswoman, and a desperate man who threatens to drive Avi off a cliff. In this collection of fanciful and offbeat stories, you'll also meet the amorous yet devious Lord and Lady Ryweinster, a talking Amazonian parrot, a champion MMA fighter, and an elderly couple who could have been headliners at a Catskills resort. At the heart of the collection, however, is the story of the journey Avi takes to a world beyond this one, a fascinating domain where he reunites with his long-deceased mother and two of his siblings. His otherworldly guides help him learn the rules of this unfamiliar, magical realm, and he is able to spend some meaningful moments with the people who were closest to him in childhood and get a glimpse, perhaps, of what lies ahead for us all.
Taking Flight
Avi has had quite a life. He and his wife, Sara, have lived and traveled all over the world, including some exotic--and occasionally less than hospitable--destinations. He's also met and befriended some colorful characters, including a man who can get you anything (for a price, of course), a tribal chieftain, an enterprising shopkeeper, a father who mourns a daughter lost at sea, a particularly hard-nosed and nosy businesswoman, and a desperate man who threatens to drive Avi off a cliff. In this collection of fanciful and offbeat stories, you'll also meet the amorous yet devious Lord and Lady Ryweinster, a talking Amazonian parrot, a champion MMA fighter, and an elderly couple who could have been headliners at a Catskills resort. At the heart of the collection, however, is the story of the journey Avi takes to a world beyond this one, a fascinating domain where he reunites with his long-deceased mother and two of his siblings. His otherworldly guides help him learn the rules of this unfamiliar, magical realm, and he is able to spend some meaningful moments with the people who were closest to him in childhood and get a glimpse, perhaps, of what lies ahead for us all.
The Matador of the Five Towns and Other Stories
"The Matador of the Five Towns and Other Stories" by Arnold Bennett is a collection of captivating short stories that epitomize the essence of English literature. Set against the backdrop of Stoke-on-Trent during the industrial revolution, Bennett masterfully crafts tales that delve into the lives of the working class in the Midlands. Through character-driven narratives, Bennett explores the complexities of human nature within the urban landscape of Victorian-era England. His stories are steeped in social realism, offering a poignant portrayal of life in the rapidly changing industrialized society. Each story in the collection provides a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances, showcasing Bennett's keen psychological insight into the human condition. From the struggles of factory workers to the aspirations of ambitious individuals striving for a better life, Bennett's prose resonates with authenticity and depth. "The Matador of the Five Towns and Other Stories" stands as a testament to Bennett's prowess as a storyteller, offering readers a compelling exploration of the triumphs and tribulations of life in the bustling heart of the industrial revolution.
A Master Of Craft
A Master of Craft by W. W. Jacobs is a witty maritime fiction short story, renowned for its humorous portrayal of British literature. Set against the backdrop of nautical settings, the narrative delves into the intricacies of ship life with vivid characterization and cunning plot twists. The story follows the exploits of the protagonist, the titular 'Master of Craft, ' whose adventures unfold with a blend of humor and irony. Jacobs' skillful use of satire adds depth to the narrative, offering a subtle commentary on society and human nature. Through cleverly crafted plot intricacies, readers are drawn into a world of adventure and mischief, where the protagonist's cunning maneuvers often lead to unexpected outcomes. Ship life serves as both backdrop and catalyst for the unfolding events, enriching the story with its authenticity and maritime flavor. As the story unfolds, readers are treated to a delightful exploration of character dynamics and the art of storytelling. With its sharp wit and engaging narrative style, 'A Master of Craft' stands as a timeless example of Jacobs' mastery in crafting short stories that entertain and provoke thought in equal measure."
Options
"Options" by O. Henry, a collection of captivating short stories. In "Options," O. Henry, the master of the twist ending, showcases his unparalleled storytelling prowess through a series of gripping short narratives. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, each tale unfolds with a blend of wit, humor, and poignant insight, drawing readers into a world where ordinary lives intersect with extraordinary circumstances. Through his vivid characters and skillful prose, O. Henry explores a diverse range of themes, from love and ambition to fate and redemption. From the bustling streets of New York City to the quiet corners of small-town America, the stories in "Options" offer a panoramic view of the human experience, capturing the essence of life in all its complexity. With his trademark twist endings and clever plot twists, O. Henry keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each unexpected turn of events. Whether exploring the highs and lows of romance or the intricacies of human nature, "Options" leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the power of storytelling to illuminate the human condition. As a timeless classic of American literature, "Options" stands as a testament to O. Henry's enduring legacy as one of the greatest short story writers of all time.
Wessex Tales
"Wessex Tales" by Thomas Hardy is a collection of captivating short stories that encapsulate the essence of rural life in Victorian England. As a master of realism and regionalism, Hardy paints a vivid portrait of the people, landscapes, and traditions of the fictional region of Wessex. At its core, "Wessex Tales" explores the intricacies of human nature, delving into themes of love, fate, and the struggle for social mobility. Through a diverse cast of characters and settings, Hardy brings to life the joys and sorrows of everyday life in the English countryside. From tales of forbidden romance to stories of moral dilemmas and societal injustice, each narrative in "Wessex Tales" offers a glimpse into the complexities of rural existence during the Victorian era. Hardy's keen observations and attention to detail create a rich tapestry of life in Wessex, drawing readers into a world that is both familiar and unfamiliar. With its timeless themes and richly drawn characters, "Wessex Tales" stands as a testament to Hardy's skill as a storyteller and his deep understanding of the human condition. Whether exploring the struggles of the working class or the conflicts of the landed gentry, these tales offer profound insights into the universal truths that bind us all.
The Man Who Could Not Lose
"The Man Who Could Not Lose" by Richard Harding Davis is a thrilling short story that transports readers into the high-stakes world of gambling and adventure. In this captivating work of fiction, Davis masterfully crafts a narrative brimming with luck, risk, and intrigue. Set against the backdrop of society's elite, the story follows a charismatic protagonist known as "The Man Who Could Not Lose." With a penchant for gambling and a seemingly unbreakable winning streak, he navigates through a web of excitement and danger, captivating readers with each twist and turn. As the stakes grow higher and the tension mounts, Davis skillfully develops the protagonist's character, revealing layers of complexity beneath his outward bravado. Through the protagonist's interactions with others in high society, themes of wealth and societal expectations emerge, adding depth to the narrative. Driven by a sense of thrill and anticipation, readers are drawn deeper into the story, eager to uncover the secrets that lie beneath the surface. With its blend of suspense and excitement, "The Man Who Could Not Lose" is a gripping tale that leaves readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Power of Jewish Holiday Stories
The story is an important component of Jewish literature, conveying important ideas. Of course, it is not the only such technique, but no other medium transmits Jewish values and ideas as powerfully as does a story. There are laws, there are poems, there are prayers and there are ethical treatises, but none of these modalities compare with the power of a story.In this book, The Power of Jewish Holiday Stories: Their Meaning for Our Time, Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins uses the power of the story to illustrate meaningful examples of spiritual growth from the experiences of many Jewish people. Their experiences often occurred during the Jewish holiday season, beginning with Elul, and followed by the Ten Days of Repentance. He then presents stories that exemplify the beauty and holiness of Shabbat, followed by year-round stories encapsulated in his Days of Faith section.These stories have been compiled by Rabbi Elkins during his more than 50 years as a Rabbi. In addition to his own stories, he also includes stories from his colleagues, friends, and associates.These inspirational stories provide new meaning for our time."God, if it was raining and You didn't have a hat, I'd lend You mine. And if my hat wasn't big enough to keep You dry, I'd lend You my cloak. And if that wasn't enough, I'd stand over You and let the rain fall on me. That's how much I love You."The Shepherd's PrayerA young man had a dream. In it, he saw an angel holding a stack of beautiful books."Whose books are those?" he asked the angel."They are yours," was the answer, "if you have the courage to write them."Rabbi Hayim of VolozhinDov Peretz Elkins is one of the most spiritual people I know. His creative work in education and nourishing human beings is known throughout the world. ... His work continues to be chicken soup for my soul.Jack Canfield, co-author, Chicken Soup For the SoulThe author, Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins, is a Winner of the National Jewish Book Award and a NY Times Best-Selling Author.
Meadow Grass Tales of New England Life
Meadow Grass: Tales of New England Life by " Alice Brown Heartwarming short stories capturing rural charm and human resilience." In "Meadow Grass: Tales of New England Life" by Alice Brown, readers are invited to explore the timeless beauty and rich tapestry of rural New England through a collection of heartwarming short stories. Falling within the genre of regional fiction, Brown's narratives paint a vivid portrait of life in small towns and villages, where the bonds of community and the resilience of the human spirit are celebrated. Each story in "Meadow Grass" offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. From the struggles of hardworking farmers to the joys of close-knit families, Brown's characters come to life on the page, their hopes, dreams, and fears resonating with readers of all backgrounds. Through her evocative prose and keen observations, Brown captures the essence of New England life, from the changing seasons to the idyllic landscapes that shape the rhythms of daily existence. Whether exploring themes of love, loss, or redemption, each tale in "Meadow Grass" is imbued with a sense of warmth and authenticity that lingers long after the final page is turned.
Sand, Sea and Tamburello
When Rosetta dries her hair on her balcony, she's not interested in the sun's warmth but in the young fishmonger who's eager to warm her heart. Can Don Pericle be a gracious host when an entire wedding party gets stranded at his villa? Tanino and Melina have a tough job competing with Valentina's other grandparents who take her on exhilarating trips to the beach. What can Alfonso do when his neighbours' karaoke parties become too much?Ten stories that sparkle with the Sicilian sea, ring with the singsongs of fishmongers, and warm the heart like the summer's sun. If you enjoy atmospheric fiction and stories that make you feel like you've traveled somewhere new, this one is absolutely worth picking up.- Review on Amazon.de Also available in ebook and large print paperback.
Nothing To Be Afraid Of
Strange tales about unnamed horrors that lurk in the spaces between reality and insanity. Are these stories about people who have brushed against evil, or in their wanderings through chaos, simply lost their way? Stories about ordinary people and the fears that come for us all, they will stay with you and haunt your dreams.
The Anniversary
The Anniversary covers it all, as only family stories can. It is a story of personal resilience for Maggie and her sister Grace after a tragic event changes everything. Life always required navigational skills for the girls, but nothing they couldn't handle together.Although terrified, Maggie cannot wait another day: it's time to tell Grace the truth. Forty years to the day of the tragedy, how might the truth affect an already strained relationship with her beloved sister?
The Anniversary
The Anniversary covers it all, as only family stories can. It is a story of personal resilience for Maggie and her sister Grace after a tragic event changes everything. Life always required navigational skills for the girls, but nothing they couldn't handle together.Although terrified, Maggie cannot wait another day: it's time to tell Grace the truth. Forty years to the day of the tragedy, how might the truth affect an already strained relationship with her beloved sister?
Gettin' High
The stories in Gettin' High take place mainly in New York City and Puerto Rico, though three are set in rural Michigan where the author grew up. They transpire during the turbulent decade of the 1960s. As the title suggests, many characters smoke weed and experience its eerie and pleasurable effects. That is one current running through several stories, though not a major theme. Rather, the thematic anchor is the search for love and meaning in a changing, transient world.The characters are generally involved with music, as performers or students, and what it means to become a professional musician. Music as a means to communicate truly with another person is also an important facet of the plot lines in the stories, whether this is on a river tour or on a formal concert stage, and the characters strive to find the essence of their art in various ways. Of course, music goes beyond words, and this musical quest is what propels many of the characters' lives and loves. Also, the real-life business of music is another salient aspect for character development.Three of the stories are set in the rural landscape of the author's youth. Here the theme of the demise of the family farm is set forth against the backdrop of the long transition from an agrarian to an urban life style which has taken place throughout the 20th century. All of the stories in Gettin' High were written many years ago while the author himself was working as a professional musician in the Puerto Rico Symphony. As such, they may seem somewhat dated, since this was a time before iphones, the internet, TikTok and social media. People actually needed to communicate more directly with one another, in a more intimate fashion. And this is reflected in the plots and dialogue of the stories. The roles of men and women were also, for better or worse, more rigidly defined. And this perspective undoubtedly finds its way into the portrayal of the characters as they seek to explore new boundaries and experiences--from the farm to the concert stage to smoking weed--a long trajectory set against the backdrop of the Vietnam war.Though these stories were mostly written over 50 years ago, the author believes that they are still relevant in today's world. The subject of abortion figures in A Love Story as well as interracial love. Also, a forgotten incident of child abuse rears its head in The Hermit as well as performance anxiety in The Recital. The racism still lingering in the South of the early 1960s, and which America is still struggling to truly confront, plays a role in Milly-A Fantasy. And undoubtedly, the transformative potential of music has not diminished over the years--whether it be jazz, the folk music of the 1960s, today's Hip-Hop and Rap or the classical music of the formal, concert stage. Humanity still seems to thrive on music's inherent message of hope and its curative power. Finally, it is the author's hope that, at the very least, readers will find something of themselves in the characters of these tales as they seek out life's ephemeral joys, happiness and fulfillment in today's challenging world.
Why She Loves Him
Twenty-one short stories from award-winning writer Wendy James, ranging from the vignette to the compact epic, the suburban kitchen to the outback and the world, an instant to a lifetime and beyond. A stay-at-home father is consumed by his frustrations. In Salzburg, a fortepiano maker struggles to preserve his family. Generations of women recall the family matriarch-was she really a witch? And in a kaleidoscopic tour de force, a young mother finds herself on the run with a desperate criminal. These are stories about memory and perspective, patterns and deviations, longing and escape: a glittering collection from a master of the form.
The World Is Neither Stacked for Nor Against You
The World is Neither Stacked for Nor Against You is a book of disparate parts, a sort of Frankenstein monster of a collection. And indeed, there is a monster story, as well as a ghost story, an angel story, a mystical religious story, and a mystical secular story. Some of the work is experimental, some of it is outlandish, and some of it is as simple and comforting as a home-baked pie. Its stories are made of gypsum, bituminous coal, red bricks and whimsy. They are equal parts crassitude and chimera. The final one, "Publisher," the book's longest, concerns a man working for a vanity press who discovers "the real thing," a novel he is convinced will blast a hole in the complacency of modern literature. About "Publisher," John Grisham said, "It's not only funny and clever, it reminded me of the first 80 pages of Sophie's Choice. Great work." The stories have previously appeared in The Pinch, Orchid, Ghoti, Gargoyle and other fine periodicals, as well as story collections published by a handful of sincere, frabjous, small presses.
The Belle of Sleepy Hollow and Other Untold Stories in Classic American Tales
The Belle of Sleepy Hollow contains nine tales, each tied to a classic American short story. The new stories are implicit critiques and interpretations of the old ones, but they are also tributes to some of the most beloved works in American literature. Referencing the same characters, settings, and events, these tales are situated within a time gap left by the original, or placed before or after the known story, or told from a different point of view. Each new story is a self-contained and artful work of fiction inspired by its source but offering a fresh perspective on the fictional world immortalized in the prior work. The style evokes, rather than imitates, the voice of the original. Beautifully illustrated with scenes from the stories, the collection pulls the reader back into the iconic story-worlds of authors as diverse as Poe and Chesnutt or Hawthorne and Chopin.
Planked by the Abyss
Reading Planked by the Abyss is not only like reading something completely different, but like reading for the first time. Each of Tuite's sentences feel like a poem. Put together into a story, they feel like an experience. Put together all the stories and it's like I have a new perspective I could never have foreseen, a new understanding of what fiction can do. - Michael Czyzniejewski, author of The Amnesiac in the Maze: StoriesNo one writes sentences like Meg Tuite, who has a voice so unique it's a literary fingerprint. These stories are alive and unpredictable, beautiful and dangerous like a forest of angels' trumpets. With unmistakable style, Tuite captives in sentences so oddly poetic, so deeply surreal, they are sentient beings blooming with bizarro brilliance and the bewitchingly, timely wisdom of uncanny reality.- Aimee Parkison-author of Suburban Death Project
The Story Collector
A collection of twisty, contemporary tales that connect to give a novel-like feel...Based on the idea that we're all linked through chains of acquaintance, this contemporary collection explores what makes us human: love, grief, kindness, and the maternal bond between a mother and child. But when it comes to protecting those closest to us, we can all be ruthless!Each tale includes an element of speculative mystery as minor characters in one story become the main character in another. What makes this collection different is how The Story Collector weaves in and out to deliver a sense of poetic justice, giving a novel-like feel when read in sequence.What readers are saying aboutThe Story Collector: 'Charming, witty and really well written.''The tonic I needed in a stressful time.''The stories are all connected and that keeps you turning the pages.''All the characters were realistic and complex.'
Believe It Or Not-- YOU Decide!
Life has many ups and downs and at times experiences happen that don't seem they could have happened because they don't make sense. Sometimes they can be funny or humorous to make you laugh out loud, but there are other times in life where something happens that is frightening and scares you, to even at times being harmed. At times, an experience starts out normal and then turns horribly wrong at the end. These stories are perhaps a combination of it all, where reality meets fiction but here YOU must decide which is which.
Pigeon House
Pigeon House is pulled from the stories women tell each other in hushed tones over a tea-kettle, a firepit, at the nail salon, while stirring a steamy cauldron, or kicking mud into an open grave. It's cottagecore meets bog witch, Ophelia floating down the river in the John Everett Millais painting, Anne of Green Gables if she lived in modern times and only ever loved bad men, Stevie Nicks if her album Bella Donna was a haunting. Pigeon House is for the Practical Magic cult-witches who spent the late 90's sectioning themselves off between the Jillians and the Sallys only to wake one day as the aunts. It's for the manic-pixie-dream girlies, the Harley Quinn used-to-be's, the ex-girlfriends of Heathcliff and Team Jess and Jimmy Angelo. You'll come for the magic, stay for that youthful gnawing hunger, and leave with the ghosts of your lovers past.
