I just stumbled across this website and read your story. What an inspiration it is! I couldn't stop reading. I'm going to start writing again!
Melodie Earickson
Appreciated the pace feel and prose of this story, very readable and sympathetic. Years since I read Dostoyevsky so the allusions were I'm afraid lost on me but I much liked the detailed appreciation of the tradesman's skills and the mother daughter interplay. Good stuff mate.
The idea for this story came about after my second trip to Russia to adopt two daughters from central Siberia. A lot of the rather sobering 'Russian' imagery is autobiographical and consequently very accurate in terms of the oppressive atmosphere my wife and I experienced as we... Show more
Thank God for advocates! It is refreshing that a book that came from behind became the winner - I always root for the underdog - I'm truly glad you won...Paula
Nothing like coming in from behind and being recognized for a fine piece of work. Just shows you that a good story will find its place in the top. Congratulations and I look forward to reading more of your work. Valerie
What a shock to win. My Head's still spinning. Thanks so much for the kind words.
Barry
Congratulations on being in the top eleven. Good luck in the final three! Elizabeth
Good read. Gave you a vote.
Thanks, Matt and good luck with the contest.
I liked the detail in this story. For me the setting is as important as the dialogue in helping the reader to visulise your plot. You did this really well. I can't believe you've been sitting on this talent for all those years.
Thanks for your gracious remarks. I don't know where a serious short story writer would find a forum outside of the internet. I tried for years to get something published in the academic quarterlies to no avail. It's all about 'pedigree' (i.e. who you know in the editorial... Show more
I like your story, too, having seen Paige's recommendation. I've voted. Good luck in the contest.
Bek :)
P.S.: I'd love your feedback on my entry, 'Orlando, My Hero'. A short read.
Thanks again.
Good for you! Here's my advice. Take a look at some of the writers' websites like Bookrix, smashwords or abctales.com. They all have some really good people writing for the shear fun of it. Write your heart out and get some feedback and, most importantly, have fun!!!
By the way,... Show more
Good for you! Here's my advice. Take a look at some of the writers' websites like Bookrix, smashwords or abctales.com. They all have some really good people writing for the shear fun of it. Write your heart out and get some feedback and, most importantly, have fun!!!
By the way, the story you read was inspired by a trip I took with my wife to Siberia several years back to adopt two baby girls. Best thing we ever did. Thanks again for your kind comments.
Barry