Libby

Congratulations, John. I loved your yo-yo story. And thanks for organising, Ath.

Well, there’s a pleasant surprise for a Sunday morning! Thanks, Ath, and thank you fellow Denizens.
I’ll ponder a new prompt and put it up later today.

Well done, John. And thanks Ath!

Excellent entries and an excellent winner! Congratulations John and thank you Ath for the competition.

Oops! Sorry all – got my days mixed up, but anyway, super quality this month.

Sandra – Time to play
Yes! That’s exactly the feeling: that unexpected memory. There’s a lot in these few words. Oddly enough I was thinking about the ‘play’ that’s so often missing from writing, quite recently. So easy to assume that a reverential approach will produc…[Read more]

First day

The first day of school was always like this – nervous parents clutching little ones’ hands, milling in a crowd of growing frenzy. The sooner they were decoupled and the parents moved firmly on their way, the better it would be for everyone. But first reassurance was needed.

I moved through the group, cutting apron strings when no one…[Read more]

Fascinating tale, Philippa, well done for sticking it out to a triumphant end. Looking forward to reading the book.

I couldn’t do this idea justice. The right person could really build the tension and explore the changing relationships of the three characters as the story builds. Interesting project for someone, but not me.

What a great crucible of an idea. I can see it as a film too.

You certainly had a lot of ups and downs but congratulations for sticking with it all the way. I am so looking forward to reading it and have just pre-ordered it.

Well the story of the book is seriously interesting, so I can hardly wait to get my copy.
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party?

Incredible! Fifteen year olds in charge! Great blog.

Her Granny’s face beamed through the steam rising from the jug that she clutched to her chest as though it was a precious jewel.

‘Surprise,’ she said.

Lily looked carefully at her. What could it be? Her plate was complete; a piece of white fish at the top; sweet corn balanced on the left; and mashed potato carefully piled to one side. She’d…[Read more]

I’m not sure. An I remember exercise about a particular relationship would be something of a curiosity I think. I enjoyed writing these short pieces because they helped me remember the taste of the time rather than focusing on every intense flavour.

With such a litany of abysmal systems, irresponsible staff and wayward practices, it’s a wonder that a lot more than fifteen people weren’t killed. Not that that’s any consolation. The people who ran the show ought to have gone to prison for a very long time

It’s really hard to believe that somebody could send deliberately ridiculous/obstructive messages like Herbert John when lives were at stake (and I know he was only 18). That said, it’s a level of managerial incompetence and hubris that almost defies belief. Sadly, as the years go by it’s clear that more than cream floats to the top.

Another…[Read more]