K.L. Hallam's Blog, page 11
April 14, 2017
Review: The Wood by Chelsea Bobulski
The Wood by Chelsea BobulskiMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A repost from my review on The Kidliterati
Do not travel on the paths.
Do not linger after dark.
Do not ignore the calling.
Sixteen-year-old, Winter, is a guardian of the wood, the same wood that took her father. She protects the travelers who pass through, making sure they return to their time period. Otherwise, the world could implode.
It’s a dangerous job. Winter works all day to ensure the travelers are guided back to their threshold. But, if she’s caught in the wood after sundown, the shadows, called Sentinels, rise; the icy cold follows their razor sharp teeth.
The wood is ill, black tar drips from the leaves, and it’s spreading. Travelers are found in bad shape, stricken to their core by the darkness of the wood and the poison and the shadows.
Winter isn’t alone. She worries about her mother, while her mother worries if she’ll return home each day, or if the wood has taken her. There’s Uncle Joe, who’s worked closely with her father, and more like brothers through the years as guardians of the wood. Uncle Joe watches over Winter. He wants to protect her where her father left off.
So when a boy passes through the wood from the 18th Century, a mortal, begging for help, who might know where her father is, she listens. Reluctant, at first, helping him goes against the most important rule of the guardians: No traveler can pass through a threshold into a time that is not their own.
Together, they set out to save the wood, and find his parents, Old Ones who disappeared that may know what’s happening to the wood and how to stop it. But the ancient one, Varo has returned, an outcast 500 years ago. Could he be darkening the wood, and using Dragon’s Bain, the one thing that could kill an immortal guardian?
A fun fantasy with a time-travel twist, a forest that comes alive with dark forces, magical benevolent fireflies, friendship, sacrifice, and a satisfying conclusion, make for an absorbing read. The action writing and the pace were effortless.
Recommended for readers 13 and up.
Release date: August 1, 2017 by Feiwel & Friends
View all my reviews
April 4, 2017
April is Poetry Month!
I've unearthed volumes of poetry since digging up old diaries for the YA novel I'm working on. Many of the poems are in (desperate) need of editing. I've wanted to share a few for awhile. But I was scared. The poems below were written in the 1990's.
AloneI always write when I feel alone,Inside my mind, there is a home.The stories or levels, the steps the stairs, an attic holds you unawares. What lurks inside those shadowy places? I never really see the faces.
*** Creating through thought and creating despair. I see you with others and try not to compare. Maybe it was the words we said. Or the hopes we shared. This caused my head to believe you cared. Childish, I know in my head, but my heart will pretend, and go till the end.
***
If it’s silence we want why create tears? In the hearts of millions a thoroughfare of fears, collapse under wishes unreceived, no need for greed. Cast away the mask one wears to cover, the face of hate not shared by another.
***Tear apartFixed ideasThat chains you
Keeps youBehind Your stranger
Facing upTo breatheThe danger
InsanityNot forcedTo linger
Not wrappedAroundYour little finger
Leave me to the heightsOf wonder
I’ll move aside The rocks I’m under.
AloneI always write when I feel alone,Inside my mind, there is a home.The stories or levels, the steps the stairs, an attic holds you unawares. What lurks inside those shadowy places? I never really see the faces.
*** Creating through thought and creating despair. I see you with others and try not to compare. Maybe it was the words we said. Or the hopes we shared. This caused my head to believe you cared. Childish, I know in my head, but my heart will pretend, and go till the end.
***
If it’s silence we want why create tears? In the hearts of millions a thoroughfare of fears, collapse under wishes unreceived, no need for greed. Cast away the mask one wears to cover, the face of hate not shared by another.
***Tear apartFixed ideasThat chains you
Keeps youBehind Your stranger
Facing upTo breatheThe danger
InsanityNot forcedTo linger
Not wrappedAroundYour little finger
Leave me to the heightsOf wonder
I’ll move aside The rocks I’m under.
March 28, 2017
YA Book Review: What I Lost by Alexandra Ballard
What I Lost by Alexandra BallardMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I received an ARC for an honest review. This is a repost from Kidliterati
What I Lost is a compelling story about sixteen-year-old, Elizabeth, who has dropped 4 sizes in only a few months, lost a boyfriend, and struggles with an eating disorder against her better judgment. Pained by the sight of greasy, sticky, full-fat food, or the horror more than a morsel might touch her lips. Her struggle is painful, recognizable, and terribly real.
When Elizabeth’s parents bring her to Wallingfield, a treatment center for girls going through a similar struggle, we meet a host of characters, each desperately trying to survive their own eating disorder. It’s excruciating. You feel for each girl, and her story, as you discover the pain that brought them here.
Although Elizabeth doesn’t like being away from home, Wallingfield quickly becomes a refuge, a place of safety, while she wrestles with the idea of staying there for good or getting well enough to leave. The recovery rate is slim. She knows this. Her roommate Lexi leaves, inspiring Elizabeth to eat just enough to (hopefully) return to the comfort of her home. When mysterious packages arrive for Elizabeth, the girls convince her that she has a secret admirer. Surely, it’s her ex-boyfriend with the clues he’d sent. Had he forgiven her?
After treatment, and counseling, and a final heartbreaking confrontation with her mother, who has her own size-0 obsession, could Elizabeth be ready to leave Wallingfield? You walk each step as Elizabeth works to find herself and be more than the disorder.
Authentic, and heartbreaking, a must read for our girls -- and boys! WHAT I LOST is an important book for our times. I hope it empowers our girls to love their bodies in all their glorious shapes and sizes.
Expected publication: June 6th, 2017 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux
View all my reviews
March 21, 2017
In Honor of World Poetry Day.
#WorldPoetryDay snuck up on me.
Poetry was my first love and it brought me around to finally penning longer works such a novels. So, I'm jumping in!
Here's a flashback from when I met my partner, Alex. We've together over 20 years! The others are also older poems. I have many, but I'll spare you most. Here are a few randomly selected pieces:
First Sight
How does my merry mirth give rise to a single thought, now divided into two—me and you. Tied as one, we’ve begun to shine, shrouds of covers layer us in colors. Warm to the touch, burning fire to behold. Pure gold.
The magician's hand has brought the alchemists touch, and transmuted all my fears into the promising years, seen now through a gazing crystal clear.
Creativity
I’ve tasted something which leaps from you, in droplets and bubbles. Offerings from your imagination, deities who give forth that which marks a passage closer to them. Whatever capsule one could find, a grueling task to define.
Outside images, the mind illuminates through the test of time, solidify into concrete worlds of reality and form—not all you see but more. All that derives from the experience, all that pushes toward the future foundation you build upon, creates an immense fortress of solitude and happiness.
Creativity II
Creating through thought and creating despair. I see you with others and try not to compare. Maybe it was the words we said, or the hopes we shared. Which caused my head to believe you cared. Childish, I know, but my heart will pretend to go till the end.
Come Together
If it’s silence we want why create tears? In hearts of millions thoroughfare of fears, collapsed under wishes received, no need of forgotten greed. Cast away the mask one wears to cover, the face of hate not shared by another.
Poetry was my first love and it brought me around to finally penning longer works such a novels. So, I'm jumping in!
Here's a flashback from when I met my partner, Alex. We've together over 20 years! The others are also older poems. I have many, but I'll spare you most. Here are a few randomly selected pieces:
First Sight
How does my merry mirth give rise to a single thought, now divided into two—me and you. Tied as one, we’ve begun to shine, shrouds of covers layer us in colors. Warm to the touch, burning fire to behold. Pure gold.
The magician's hand has brought the alchemists touch, and transmuted all my fears into the promising years, seen now through a gazing crystal clear.
Creativity
I’ve tasted something which leaps from you, in droplets and bubbles. Offerings from your imagination, deities who give forth that which marks a passage closer to them. Whatever capsule one could find, a grueling task to define.
Outside images, the mind illuminates through the test of time, solidify into concrete worlds of reality and form—not all you see but more. All that derives from the experience, all that pushes toward the future foundation you build upon, creates an immense fortress of solitude and happiness.
Creativity II
Creating through thought and creating despair. I see you with others and try not to compare. Maybe it was the words we said, or the hopes we shared. Which caused my head to believe you cared. Childish, I know, but my heart will pretend to go till the end.
Come Together
If it’s silence we want why create tears? In hearts of millions thoroughfare of fears, collapsed under wishes received, no need of forgotten greed. Cast away the mask one wears to cover, the face of hate not shared by another.
March 13, 2017
What have I been up to? Ooh, quite a few things. Maybe you can help?
I’ve been trying to get an agent since 2012, with my first middle-grade novel. I shelved that project and kept writing. I had a YA novella finished and was busy writing my historical fantasy, while a publisher had picked up my Sci-Fi middle-grade. Many agents said they didn’t know how to sell my SFF, and why I took a chance with a publisher I believed had the same idea in mind: Books for reluctant readers. I have two at home. I revised that MS for nearly a year, it went to copy edits — and POOF. The book was canceled (many already know this sappy story of 50 authors with books canceled by Month9books. We may be the lucky ones). That was forever ago—last May. I had the good fortune that my YA (ebook) novella came out the same week. Or did I? Whoa, boy, were my emotions All. Over. The. Place. Trying to smile and meanwhile..."
I remind myself that no experience is wasted. Even if it takes time to realize this.
Back to now. I’m drafting a new contemporary YA, because — hey—I have fans of THE UNMOVING SKY who want to read my next book! They’re looking for suspense and intrigue, such was TUS, about two brothers lost in the woods and found by a bomb-plotting domestic terrorist. So I’m drafting — working title: American Girls. Best friends take off for New York City and trouble ensues (of course). This will be a more autobiographical. I’ll use much of my experience arriving in NYC with $400 in my pocket — and lots of dreams.Meanwhile, I’m querying my Historical Fantasy. I have a couple subs and a couple passes on subs. It is always subjective. It’s torture.
This is my question: A publisher will most always insist on revisions. Why not forgo the wasted effort and time and STRESS, searching for the “perfect fit” agent, when many publishers accept unagented submissions? Why? I need to know. On that point, a pretty amazing and promising publisher is reviewing my canceled middle-grade SFF, since Jan. So, yeah! Fingers crossed! Is this a sign to go straight to publishers? Subconscious, I need you to speak a little louder, please.
If this isn’t enough to keep busy, last week I read that many agents were looking for the book I wrote in 2012! My magical realism MG, about a herbalist and her family of witches from outer space! A mad fever took hold of me. I whipped that baby out and began revising like it was butter. Overcome with excitement about the story. Again. After years away. My beta-readers always liked it, but the agents I queried, didn’t. What if I had sent it to directly to a publisher?Agent passes – and these days just complete radio silence –has given me time to question my methods. What has your experience been submitting to publishers? As a bonus, I’m adding a list of publishers who accept unagented subs at the bottom of this post. It hasn’t been checked or updated. I found it on AW.
BTW, my publisher LEAP is amazing. Such a great group of award-winning authors and editors, only they aren’t open for submissions, plus my work would have to be suited to them.
Publishers who accept unagented subs:
Ace and Roc Science Fiction & Fantasy
Alban Lake Publishing
Alter Press
Anaiah Press FLEDGLING
Artema Press
Baen Books
Bedazzled Ink Publishing Company
Belfire Press
Bitingduck Press
Black Bed Sheet Books
Black Rose Writing
Blind Eye Books
Bloomsbury Publishing: Bloomsbury Spark
Bold Strokes Books MATURE
Books to Go Now MATURE
BURST Books
By Light Unseen Media
Candlemark & Gleam
Cerridwyn Publishing MATURE
Champagne Books
Civil Coping Mechanisms
Constable & Robinson MATURE
Crescent Moon Press
Crowded Quarantine Publications
Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing
Damnation Books MATURE
Dark Quest Books
DAW Books
Diabolic Publications
Diversion Books
Divertir Publishing
Dragonfairy Press
EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Eggplant Literary Productions
eLectio Publishing
Entranced Publishing MATURE
Eternal Press MATURE
Etopia Press MATURE
eTreasures Publishing
Evernight Publishing MATURE
Evil Girlfriend Media
Fable Press
Fireship Press
Fish Creek Press
Freedom Forge Press
FreedomFiction.com
Genesis Press
Ghostwoods Books NEW!
Glastonbury Publishing MATURE
Gollancz
Hark! New Era Publishing
Harlequin LUNA Books
Harlequin Series Digital First MATURE
Harlequin: Carina Press MATURE
Hydra House
Infinite Acacia: Africa-Centered Novels
Ink Smith Publishing
J. Taylor Publishing
Jolly Fish Press
JournalStone Publishing
Jupiter Gardens Press MATURE
Kayelle Press Two-Up Short Novels NEW!
Kayelle Press Young Adult Novels
Keith Publications MATURE
Kensington Publishing Corp. MATURE
Lethe Press
Lillibridge Press MATURE
Loconeal Publishing
Loose Leaves Publishing
Lyrical Press MATURE
Mandrake of Oxford MATURE
Medallion Media Group
Montag Press
Mundania Press
Musa Publishing MATURE
Necro Publications
Netherworld Books MATURE
Nosy Crow
Old Timey Hedgehog
One Ink FLEDGLING MATURE NEW!
PageSpring Publishing: Lucky Marble Books
Pan Macmillan Australia
Paper Road Press
Polis Books FLEDGLING MATURE
Port Yonder Press
Pyr
Random House: Hydra NEW!
Random Static
Resurrection House FLEDGLING
REUTS Publications
Roane Publishing FLEDGLING MATURE
Rogue Phoenix Press
Rooster Republic Press
Rozlyn Press
S A M Publishing MATURE
Seven Archons
Shadow Mountain
Shroud Publishing
Silver Leaf Books
Silverthought Press
Sirens Call Publications
Sky Warrior Books
Skyhorse Publishing: Sky Pony Press
Small Beer Press
Snowbooks
Spanking Pulp Press FLEDGLING
Splashdown Books
Spore Press
Strange Days Books
Stygian Publications
Sybaritic Press
SynergEbooks
Theaker's Quarterly Fiction
Tor Books
Tor UK
TWB Press
Twelfth Planet Press
Twenty or Less Press
Typhoon Media: Lightning Originals
Upper Rubber Boot Books
Vagabondage Press MATURE
Wapshott Press, The: Storylandia
Wings ePress, Inc.
World Castle Publishing
World Weaver Press
WriterPrint New Author Publishers MATURE
Zharmae Publishing Press, The MATURE
Zharmae Publishing Press, The: illusio & baqer
Zharmae Publishing Press, The: Luthando Coeur
Zumaya Publications
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What have I been up to? Ooh, quite a few things. Maybe you can help me?
I’ve been trying to get an agent since 2012, with my first middle-grade novel. I shelved that project and kept writing. I had a YA novella finished and was busy writing my historical fantasy, while a publisher had picked up my Sci-Fi middle-grade. Many agents said they didn’t know how to sell my SFF, and why I took a chance with a publisher I believed had the same idea in mind: Books for reluctant readers. I have two at home. I revised that MS for nearly a year, it went to copy edits — and POOF. The book was canceled (many already know this sappy story of 50 authors with books canceled by Month9books. We may be the lucky ones). That was forever ago—last May. I had the good fortune that my YA (ebook) novella came out the same week. Or did I? Whoa, boy, were my emotions All. Over. The. Place. Trying to smile and meanwhile..."
I remind myself that no experience is wasted. Even if it takes time to realize this.
Back to now. I’m drafting a new contemporary YA, because — hey—I have fans of THE UNMOVING SKY who want to read my next book! They’re looking for suspense and intrigue, such was TUS, about two brothers lost in the woods and found by a bomb-plotting domestic terrorist. So I’m drafting — working title: American Girls. Best friends take off for New York City and trouble ensues (of course). This will be a more autobiographical. I’ll use much of my experience arriving in NYC with $400 in my pocket — and lots of dreams.Meanwhile, I’m querying my Historical Fantasy. I have a couple subs and a couple passes on subs. It is always subjective. It’s torture.
This is my question: A publisher will most always insist on revisions. Why not forgo the wasted effort and time and STRESS, searching for the “perfect fit” agent, when many publishers accept unagented submissions? Why? I need to know. On that point, a pretty amazing and promising publisher is reviewing my canceled middle-grade SFF, since Jan. So, yeah! Fingers crossed! Is this a sign to go straight to publishers? Subconscious, I need you to speak a little louder, please.
If this isn’t enough to keep busy, last week I read that many agents were looking for the book I wrote in 2012! My magical realism MG, about a herbalist and her family of witches from outer space! A mad fever took hold of me. I whipped that baby out and began revising like it was butter. Overcome with excitement about the story. Again. After years away. My beta-readers always liked it, but the agents I queried, didn’t. What if I had sent it to directly to a publisher?Agent passes – and these days just complete radio silence –has given me time to question my methods. What has your experience been submitting to publishers? As a bonus, I’m adding a list of publishers who accept unagented subs at the bottom of this post. It hasn’t been checked or updated. I found it on AW.
BTW, my publisher LEAP is amazing. Such a great group of award-winning authors and editors, only they aren’t open for submissions, plus my work would have to be suited to them.
Publishers who accept unagented subs:
Ace and Roc Science Fiction & Fantasy
Alban Lake Publishing
Alter Press
Anaiah Press FLEDGLING
Artema Press
Baen Books
Bedazzled Ink Publishing Company
Belfire Press
Bitingduck Press
Black Bed Sheet Books
Black Rose Writing
Blind Eye Books
Bloomsbury Publishing: Bloomsbury Spark
Bold Strokes Books MATURE
Books to Go Now MATURE
BURST Books
By Light Unseen Media
Candlemark & Gleam
Cerridwyn Publishing MATURE
Champagne Books
Civil Coping Mechanisms
Constable & Robinson MATURE
Crescent Moon Press
Crowded Quarantine Publications
Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing
Damnation Books MATURE
Dark Quest Books
DAW Books
Diabolic Publications
Diversion Books
Divertir Publishing
Dragonfairy Press
EDGE Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Eggplant Literary Productions
eLectio Publishing
Entranced Publishing MATURE
Eternal Press MATURE
Etopia Press MATURE
eTreasures Publishing
Evernight Publishing MATURE
Evil Girlfriend Media
Fable Press
Fireship Press
Fish Creek Press
Freedom Forge Press
FreedomFiction.com
Genesis Press
Ghostwoods Books NEW!
Glastonbury Publishing MATURE
Gollancz
Hark! New Era Publishing
Harlequin LUNA Books
Harlequin Series Digital First MATURE
Harlequin: Carina Press MATURE
Hydra House
Infinite Acacia: Africa-Centered Novels
Ink Smith Publishing
J. Taylor Publishing
Jolly Fish Press
JournalStone Publishing
Jupiter Gardens Press MATURE
Kayelle Press Two-Up Short Novels NEW!
Kayelle Press Young Adult Novels
Keith Publications MATURE
Kensington Publishing Corp. MATURE
Lethe Press
Lillibridge Press MATURE
Loconeal Publishing
Loose Leaves Publishing
Lyrical Press MATURE
Mandrake of Oxford MATURE
Medallion Media Group
Montag Press
Mundania Press
Musa Publishing MATURE
Necro Publications
Netherworld Books MATURE
Nosy Crow
Old Timey Hedgehog
One Ink FLEDGLING MATURE NEW!
PageSpring Publishing: Lucky Marble Books
Pan Macmillan Australia
Paper Road Press
Polis Books FLEDGLING MATURE
Port Yonder Press
Pyr
Random House: Hydra NEW!
Random Static
Resurrection House FLEDGLING
REUTS Publications
Roane Publishing FLEDGLING MATURE
Rogue Phoenix Press
Rooster Republic Press
Rozlyn Press
S A M Publishing MATURE
Seven Archons
Shadow Mountain
Shroud Publishing
Silver Leaf Books
Silverthought Press
Sirens Call Publications
Sky Warrior Books
Skyhorse Publishing: Sky Pony Press
Small Beer Press
Snowbooks
Spanking Pulp Press FLEDGLING
Splashdown Books
Spore Press
Strange Days Books
Stygian Publications
Sybaritic Press
SynergEbooks
Theaker's Quarterly Fiction
Tor Books
Tor UK
TWB Press
Twelfth Planet Press
Twenty or Less Press
Typhoon Media: Lightning Originals
Upper Rubber Boot Books
Vagabondage Press MATURE
Wapshott Press, The: Storylandia
Wings ePress, Inc.
World Castle Publishing
World Weaver Press
WriterPrint New Author Publishers MATURE
Zharmae Publishing Press, The MATURE
Zharmae Publishing Press, The: illusio & baqer
Zharmae Publishing Press, The: Luthando Coeur
Zumaya Publications
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March 2, 2017
YA Book Review: Between Two Skies by Joanne O' Sullivan
Between Two Skies by Joanne O'SullivanMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A re-blog from my review on Kidliterati
Between Two Skies, takes place as Hurricane Katrina hits Louisiana, tearing families apart. The currents of loss and abandonment and heartbreak and the struggle that come with the destruction make this book impossible to put down.
Evangeline Riley, named after the heroine in the Longfellow poem, is about to turn sweet sixteen, and she loves Bayou Perdu, LA. The water is a part of her. Always eager to help her father, a shrimper, she longs for a life here, forever, her fairy-tale land -- a tiny secret place, where Louisiana takes its last breath before plunging into the Gulf of Mexico. Barges from all over the world glide up the Mississippi on their way to New Orleans.
The birds, the fish, the skies and sea, the tiny village of trailers, shrimpers, oystermen, and orange growers are lush and visceral, the setting its own character. The reader won’t want to leave, Bayou Perdu either. The cultural tapestry of the residents is rich and enlivening, warm and inviting. Evangeline’s mother runs a popular local diner. Her drama queen sister looks forward to attending LSU in the fall. And Mamere, her namesake, and confidant, lives with them in Bayou Perdu, dispensing nuggets of wisdom.
But a hurricane is coming. Many think there’s nothing to fear, want to wait it out. With the increasing threat, Evangeline separates from all she’s ever known, and her best friends, Kendra and Danielle, who may not have evacuated with her mother in time. And Tru, the mysterious boy in the pork pie hat, she saved from the skinny water.
After much deliberation, the family takes up residence with Evangeline’s aunt in Georgia and the girls enroll in school. Where they become “refugees”. It’s very different from what Evangeline’s family is used to, and no one is happy. But it’ll be some time before they’re allowed back in Louisiana.
A beautiful story of insurmountable loss and abandonment among the chaos as we remember this historical tragedy. The characters dreams and struggles come to life, and the story is unforgettable. There are surprises and wonder in this deftly woven tale. Expect tears.
Release date: Apr 25, 2017, Candlewick Press
View all my reviews
February 10, 2017
What They Leave Behind. A Science-Fiction Short Story by K.L. Hallam
I just put this short story up on my Wattpad account and I figured what the heck why not share it here. Dear readers, I present What They Leave Behind.
Kylie is being blamed for Sadie's disappearance, and no one is buying his alien story. How will he prove his innocence?
photo by K.L. Hallam Lake OscawanaI remember hearing a helicopter. The leaves soaked in sunshine made them translucent, but I couldn’t see anything. A clear summer day, and I was playing with friends near the Airforce base. Helicopters certainly weren’t unusual. The only time I left their sight was when I went under that tree for a little privacy. Helicopters, and sunlight, that was my only recollection. When I came out, one of my friends shouted, “What happened to your head?”Sure enough, I reached until I found the wet, warm spot, and had a look. Blood! My head didn’t hurt. And I had no idea what happened. I didn’t remember being scared. I know now, the head bleeds profusely, but this happened when I was seven years old.
I walked with my friends to the base; my mom approached me, fast and frightened, asking what had happened.“That’s probably when it started, Doctor Murphy, the missing time. Isn’t that what they say?”“Who?”“The abducted. They always mention missing time, and.” I stopped. I wasn’t sure what they said. I might have heard Dillon say something, once. Dillon’s been trying to keep me sane through this.“What about the other time, with Sadie?” he asked.“That’s what we’re here for … ” I settled back into the chair. I knew he'd make me go through it again. I much preferred the times when I couldn’t remember anything. This wasn’t going to be fun.“Sadie and I were walking, out on 9D. Pretty dark, you know. It was last Monday, just after the sunset. There are always lights, by the way, floating around, especially right before they come.” I had to take a breath. I couldn’t control this wavering pain in my stomach, the wave machine, and my hands were shaking. I rubbed the sweat on my pants and re-crossed my legs, stiff from sitting here too long. I’d hate to lie down, never know if he wiped the couch.“Just go slow,” he said. Yes slow, the images always run in slow motion. “The darkness was unreal. With the new moon, you could see the stars to infinity. We started walking toward the river, and first, our legs slowed, then our arms. I looked at her and everything on Sadie’s face vibrated, every line and wrinkle. And then the lines on the trees vibrated like maybe they were slowing down, too. Or their matter was breaking up? It’s hard to put into words. Dillon said that’s what happens.” “And you and Sadie hadn’t been drinking? Or anything?”He did that fatherly thing again, where his glasses dropped down his nose. What if we did use drugs? We didn’t, but come on. It’s a judgment call. He’s calling it. I watched out his office window. His daughter was playing with dolls near the woods. “That’s when we saw it,” I said. “And when they took her?” He flexed his jowls as he took notes.He loved this part and wanted me to say it again. I nodded. “They said they were watching, and that Sadie had a contract with them.”“That’s what they told you?” “Yes, not like we talked, but they did. They said her family had contract from years ago. Why don’t you ask them a few questions? Honestly, I think you really should.” I couldn’t breathe again. I watched the little girl through the window. Dust particles floated through the beam of sunlight. I wanted to float away with the dust. “Why do you suppose they didn’t take you?” he asks. “Said they did, many times. Guess my number wasn’t up for this trip?” I laughed, sort of. But it wasn’t funny. My nerves were impossible to settle. They’re always watching. I screamed for them to release her. “That was only a week ago … ” “Yes. Well, Kylie, you’re still under investigation for Sadie’s disappearance. I believe you, somehow, I do. I’ve heard a case or two, similar to yours, and yes, there was missing time with those cases, but how to get the police to believe it, and a lawyer, not so easy.”“Unless she comes back,” I said.He looked at me; man, he can drop eyeglasses on a dime, and said, “Yes, if she comes back.”“They hang around military bases, you know, like the one in Maine, where I lived as a kid.”Doctor Murphy stood up. “The officers are here.” He put his clipboard down, and briefly checked on his daughter from the window. Then he went to greet the officers, waiting in the next room.“Time’s up,” said officer Frank. I was already standing, and he took my arms by force. I didn’t resist. Doctor Murphy winced. They could hang me for this. I told them everything I saw. How she split in two: one bubble and one transparent body. Her “earthly” body or whatever you call it, disappeared – poof, without a trace. I’m the only trace. Everything leads to me.Doctor Murphy said he believed me, but I don’t buy it. I’m escorted, or more accurately, towed, to the police car. Head shoved under and in, like a deranged killer. Or someone they think is trying to get by on an insanity charge. Where’s the body? Just tell us where the body is. That’s what they’d asked. I stopped telling them what happened to her body.Once, years ago, listening to the radio the music changed to a song that answered a question on my mind. It got my attention. The lights flickered and I knew they were there. “How long have you been doing this?” I whispered.The Cindy Lauper song, Time After Time played. The station was set to a rock-n-roll only broadcast.“For years?” I asked in response to the song’s title. “What did you do to me when I was seven-years-old?”You are here to help, this earthy role is not your own. You wanted it this way. It’s not good to know too much, or you won’t want to stay.I felt lighter after that and it lasted a couple years. But when my dog was killed, I knew it could only be them. All the blood drained from his terrier body. Why my dog? Never an explanation just cruelty. And they were sloppy, leaving a sticky residue. The bioluminescent fluid they leave behind like slugs. Even left traces of it on the radio dial after our “conversation”. What if the police found bioluminescent residue near the river? Would that create enough doubt? They’d investigated during the day. Maybe they never saw it glow at night? “I need to call my lawyer,” I said through the wire mesh. “Yes, at the station.”When we arrived they shut me into a holding tank. I waited for my parents to come with the lawyer. I was innocent. No one believed what really happened. Why make me suffer you bully-aliens? You couldn’t stick around to take the heat? Gonna let the human go down for it? The bunk was cold and without a blanket to keep warm I crossed my arms and started to cry. I was lost. Even Dillon couldn’t help. A ball of light floated into the room. It bounced about and settled at the foot of the bunk. “You’re crying,” it was Sadie’s voice. “Sadie, is that you?” “Yes, Kylie, I can see you.”“Are you all right?”“I’m perfect. But you … I had no idea.”“What? That you could disappear without a trace and I wouldn’t look suspicious?” “You’re going to be fine,” she said. “What are they doing to you?”“I’m fulfilling my agreement. My parents will come. And you, Kyle, have a family here. They’re waiting for your “timing”. The time must be right or the cross-pattern will hiccup, and mess-up all the timelines,” she said, her voice growing distant.“I have a family?”“Yes, two boys and a daughter. Your daughter plays with mine.”I sat up on the hard cot and looked around. Was I hallucinating? The light orb grew larger and I saw Sadie through the sheen. Glowing, like an otherworldly God. She smiled. “I have a family?” “Yes, Kylie and your dog is here with them.”I rubbed my eyes. Rubbed them until eyelashes fell off. “When do I get to see them?” I asked, despite the impossibility. “Are you ready to leave your parents in this world? They won’t remember until they die what happened to you.”I nodded. “Come, Kylie, fall into the orb. I will bring you to them. It’s a little soon, but we decided we could not let you continue to suffer, for what you didn’t do.”The light orb danced up and down and grew larger. Sadie stood there, bright as day, looking much the same only more beautiful and filled with a brighter light. Footsteps came down the hall. I think I heard my mother’s voice. I would miss my family.” “Come, Kylie. The conduit is closing.”I stood up and leaped into the orb. The cell door opened. My father and the guard came in first and then my mother. They must have seen something because Mom put her hands over her mouth and the guard reached into the air and came away empty-handed. Their heads were now fixed on the ceiling. I floated with Sadie in the orb. Dad yelled that the light was too bright and Momma began to cry. She screamed my name while clutching at the air. I wanted to tell her I’d see her again.
The End
... To be continued on Wattpad if it gets enough votes!
Kylie is being blamed for Sadie's disappearance, and no one is buying his alien story. How will he prove his innocence?
photo by K.L. Hallam Lake OscawanaI remember hearing a helicopter. The leaves soaked in sunshine made them translucent, but I couldn’t see anything. A clear summer day, and I was playing with friends near the Airforce base. Helicopters certainly weren’t unusual. The only time I left their sight was when I went under that tree for a little privacy. Helicopters, and sunlight, that was my only recollection. When I came out, one of my friends shouted, “What happened to your head?”Sure enough, I reached until I found the wet, warm spot, and had a look. Blood! My head didn’t hurt. And I had no idea what happened. I didn’t remember being scared. I know now, the head bleeds profusely, but this happened when I was seven years old. I walked with my friends to the base; my mom approached me, fast and frightened, asking what had happened.“That’s probably when it started, Doctor Murphy, the missing time. Isn’t that what they say?”“Who?”“The abducted. They always mention missing time, and.” I stopped. I wasn’t sure what they said. I might have heard Dillon say something, once. Dillon’s been trying to keep me sane through this.“What about the other time, with Sadie?” he asked.“That’s what we’re here for … ” I settled back into the chair. I knew he'd make me go through it again. I much preferred the times when I couldn’t remember anything. This wasn’t going to be fun.“Sadie and I were walking, out on 9D. Pretty dark, you know. It was last Monday, just after the sunset. There are always lights, by the way, floating around, especially right before they come.” I had to take a breath. I couldn’t control this wavering pain in my stomach, the wave machine, and my hands were shaking. I rubbed the sweat on my pants and re-crossed my legs, stiff from sitting here too long. I’d hate to lie down, never know if he wiped the couch.“Just go slow,” he said. Yes slow, the images always run in slow motion. “The darkness was unreal. With the new moon, you could see the stars to infinity. We started walking toward the river, and first, our legs slowed, then our arms. I looked at her and everything on Sadie’s face vibrated, every line and wrinkle. And then the lines on the trees vibrated like maybe they were slowing down, too. Or their matter was breaking up? It’s hard to put into words. Dillon said that’s what happens.” “And you and Sadie hadn’t been drinking? Or anything?”He did that fatherly thing again, where his glasses dropped down his nose. What if we did use drugs? We didn’t, but come on. It’s a judgment call. He’s calling it. I watched out his office window. His daughter was playing with dolls near the woods. “That’s when we saw it,” I said. “And when they took her?” He flexed his jowls as he took notes.He loved this part and wanted me to say it again. I nodded. “They said they were watching, and that Sadie had a contract with them.”“That’s what they told you?” “Yes, not like we talked, but they did. They said her family had contract from years ago. Why don’t you ask them a few questions? Honestly, I think you really should.” I couldn’t breathe again. I watched the little girl through the window. Dust particles floated through the beam of sunlight. I wanted to float away with the dust. “Why do you suppose they didn’t take you?” he asks. “Said they did, many times. Guess my number wasn’t up for this trip?” I laughed, sort of. But it wasn’t funny. My nerves were impossible to settle. They’re always watching. I screamed for them to release her. “That was only a week ago … ” “Yes. Well, Kylie, you’re still under investigation for Sadie’s disappearance. I believe you, somehow, I do. I’ve heard a case or two, similar to yours, and yes, there was missing time with those cases, but how to get the police to believe it, and a lawyer, not so easy.”“Unless she comes back,” I said.He looked at me; man, he can drop eyeglasses on a dime, and said, “Yes, if she comes back.”“They hang around military bases, you know, like the one in Maine, where I lived as a kid.”Doctor Murphy stood up. “The officers are here.” He put his clipboard down, and briefly checked on his daughter from the window. Then he went to greet the officers, waiting in the next room.“Time’s up,” said officer Frank. I was already standing, and he took my arms by force. I didn’t resist. Doctor Murphy winced. They could hang me for this. I told them everything I saw. How she split in two: one bubble and one transparent body. Her “earthly” body or whatever you call it, disappeared – poof, without a trace. I’m the only trace. Everything leads to me.Doctor Murphy said he believed me, but I don’t buy it. I’m escorted, or more accurately, towed, to the police car. Head shoved under and in, like a deranged killer. Or someone they think is trying to get by on an insanity charge. Where’s the body? Just tell us where the body is. That’s what they’d asked. I stopped telling them what happened to her body.Once, years ago, listening to the radio the music changed to a song that answered a question on my mind. It got my attention. The lights flickered and I knew they were there. “How long have you been doing this?” I whispered.The Cindy Lauper song, Time After Time played. The station was set to a rock-n-roll only broadcast.“For years?” I asked in response to the song’s title. “What did you do to me when I was seven-years-old?”You are here to help, this earthy role is not your own. You wanted it this way. It’s not good to know too much, or you won’t want to stay.I felt lighter after that and it lasted a couple years. But when my dog was killed, I knew it could only be them. All the blood drained from his terrier body. Why my dog? Never an explanation just cruelty. And they were sloppy, leaving a sticky residue. The bioluminescent fluid they leave behind like slugs. Even left traces of it on the radio dial after our “conversation”. What if the police found bioluminescent residue near the river? Would that create enough doubt? They’d investigated during the day. Maybe they never saw it glow at night? “I need to call my lawyer,” I said through the wire mesh. “Yes, at the station.”When we arrived they shut me into a holding tank. I waited for my parents to come with the lawyer. I was innocent. No one believed what really happened. Why make me suffer you bully-aliens? You couldn’t stick around to take the heat? Gonna let the human go down for it? The bunk was cold and without a blanket to keep warm I crossed my arms and started to cry. I was lost. Even Dillon couldn’t help. A ball of light floated into the room. It bounced about and settled at the foot of the bunk. “You’re crying,” it was Sadie’s voice. “Sadie, is that you?” “Yes, Kylie, I can see you.”“Are you all right?”“I’m perfect. But you … I had no idea.”“What? That you could disappear without a trace and I wouldn’t look suspicious?” “You’re going to be fine,” she said. “What are they doing to you?”“I’m fulfilling my agreement. My parents will come. And you, Kyle, have a family here. They’re waiting for your “timing”. The time must be right or the cross-pattern will hiccup, and mess-up all the timelines,” she said, her voice growing distant.“I have a family?”“Yes, two boys and a daughter. Your daughter plays with mine.”I sat up on the hard cot and looked around. Was I hallucinating? The light orb grew larger and I saw Sadie through the sheen. Glowing, like an otherworldly God. She smiled. “I have a family?” “Yes, Kylie and your dog is here with them.”I rubbed my eyes. Rubbed them until eyelashes fell off. “When do I get to see them?” I asked, despite the impossibility. “Are you ready to leave your parents in this world? They won’t remember until they die what happened to you.”I nodded. “Come, Kylie, fall into the orb. I will bring you to them. It’s a little soon, but we decided we could not let you continue to suffer, for what you didn’t do.”The light orb danced up and down and grew larger. Sadie stood there, bright as day, looking much the same only more beautiful and filled with a brighter light. Footsteps came down the hall. I think I heard my mother’s voice. I would miss my family.” “Come, Kylie. The conduit is closing.”I stood up and leaped into the orb. The cell door opened. My father and the guard came in first and then my mother. They must have seen something because Mom put her hands over her mouth and the guard reached into the air and came away empty-handed. Their heads were now fixed on the ceiling. I floated with Sadie in the orb. Dad yelled that the light was too bright and Momma began to cry. She screamed my name while clutching at the air. I wanted to tell her I’d see her again.
The End
... To be continued on Wattpad if it gets enough votes!
January 31, 2017
MG Book Review: Vilonia Beebe Takes Charge by Kristin L. Gray
Vilonia Beebe Takes Charge by Kristin L. GrayMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Fourth-grader, Vilonia, Vi for short, started out in the world four times smaller than the largemouth bass hanging in her daddy’s shop. That was almost ten years ago.
Now that her mother has taken ill since Nana passed away, Vilonia must forge ahead. With a reputation for taking in destitute creatures, she spots a poster that might help her mother not feel depressed anymore.
"The most powerful antidepressant has 4 paws and a tail. 555-PETS."
And her favorite book, Because of Winn-Dixie, by Kate DiCamillo, is her inspiration to begin The Great Pet Campaign.
Meanwhile, Momma hasn’t written a single obituary for the newspaper since Nana died. (Or Nana’s) She’ll be replaced if she doesn’t write something soon, and why Vilonia steps in to help. No one would know it was Vilonia writing the county obits.
But there’s no way her father will agree to a dog. Even with the pet fund, she’s saved. Her mother is in no condition to handle any extra work. Vilonia would just have to prove how responsible she really was and she needed to find the right dog to convince her dad.
When her brother finds out her secret, he and her BFF, Ava Claire, work together to help Vilonia and wind up in a little trouble.
There’s a lot of love in this story. Vilonia holds her family together while working to bring Ray Charles home. The premature shelter dog she fell in love with. She knows it will help her mother with her "Infinite Sadness". And it will help Vilonia. Once she proves how responsible she is.
An endearing story for any child, who has ever dreamt of bringing home a dog, and the adventures that prove what you’re willing to endure for what you love. Vilonia is fearless in her pursuit.
Expected publication: March 7th 2017 by Paula Wiseman Books.
View all my reviews
January 26, 2017
MG Book Review: BRACED by Alyson Gerber
Braced by Alyson GerberMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A repost from my review on the Kidliterati Blog.
“Sometimes it’s easier to pretend to be someone else, especially when who you really are makes you feel sad.”
Twelve-year-old Rachel Brooks learns she must wear a back brace for scoliosis as her mother did, or risk a complicated surgery, in this intimate and heartfelt story.
At school, Coach Howard has just placed her forward on the team, (she’s that good) and while Rachel loves soccer more than anything, the brace now controls her life. If she misses another practice for a last-minute doctor’s appointment, she won’t make the A team. If she can maneuver like she used to, wearing the brace.
Reluctant to tell BFFs at first, Frannie and Hazel, both on the soccer team, support her. Determined like no one’s business, Rachel works to strengthen her moves on the field, so she’s not cut from the team. But the kids at school are whispering and Rachel feels like a freak wearing the brace. Can she trust her friends?
Rachel finds power through asking for what she wants. She finds her voice to speak out when something bothers her. This empowers Rachel. It empowers the reader. I loved Rachel’s voice her emotions are real and raw. Although I’ve never worn a back brace, this book comforted me. Who hasn’t felt like an outsider? Or felt different than others?
The dynamic between Rachel and her mother, the emotion from their struggle wearing the brace, and their delicate relationship, felt very real and personal. Written from the author’s experience of scoliosis, she takes us on a journey with Rachel, who must face a new normal. A place where not giving up, and speaking out when something bothers you, rule.
Debut Author, March 28th, 2017 by Scholastic Press
“The first contemporary novel about a disorder that bends the lives of ten percent of all teenagers: scoliosis.”
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