By now, regular readers of this blog and users of the website will have read the winning story in this year’s Writers’ & Artists’ short story competition.
Once again, I helped judge the winner and as per usual the standard was extremely high. I so enjoy reading the shortlist of stories. I lose myself for a short while in each one. It’s not like reading short stories in a book: my thoughts on these stories count for something. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.
The winning story, 'Breath' by Samuel Wright was chosen because firstly it was a really interesting read. I personally found that the story was very accessible and identifiable (I dare say the vast majority would find something, if not a lot, to relate to in it) and this alone endeared me to the author as well as making me smile (inwardly and outwardly). As well as that, it was a clever read: sad but uplifting all at once and the story was well crafted – having a distinct beginning, middle and end.
A definite worthy winning story. To read 'Breath' click here »
So a hearty congratulations to Samuel. From everyone at Writers’ & Artists’, we hope you enjoy your prize!
And here is the shortlist: those who came very close …. Well done to them too. All stories showed tremendous promise and all made very enjoyable reads:
Afterwards – Jocelyn Kaye
Lost for Words – Lynda Nash
The Footsteps of Retreat – Karl Peter O'Neill
Namesakes – Maggie Fogarty
Pigmeat – Gerry Byrne
Nines – Kim Fleet
The Domesday Compulsion – Steve Winter
Hedgehogs and Green Bottles – Sharon Birch
The Countdown – Carys Bray
Longtime Companion – Rebecca Kemp
Idolism – kjk_freedom@hotmail.com
Keep your eyes out for details of next year’s competition. Details will be on the website soon.
Warm wishes, Jo
Editor
Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook
Congratulations to the winner and everyone else who submitted their stories.
Regrets from Lisbon
Hello! I'm afraid the links in this article don't lead anywhere - and I was hoping to read the story. Will an updated link be available soon?
Congratulations to the winner and everyone else who submitted their stories.