6 Short Stories by Jack Croxall

Usually I don’t read YA/science but having read and enjoyed Tethers by Jack Croxall, I was glad of the opportunity to receive an ARC of his Six Short Stories being released on Amazon Kindle February 8, 2015.  One of the stories, X, won the eFestival of Words Best Short Story in 2014.

These are curious, charming, heart-warming, and strange stories that make a quick and interesting evening read.  I like that the author approaches off-the-wall themes in a practical sort of way, keeping the weird factor manageable.

The author has a way of writing that emotionally connects with the reader through feelings common to all of us, even if the story is unusual.  Some of these stories, perhaps all, could be read aloud to older children.

If I have one criticism, it is that some of the stories are waaay too short.  I’d especially like to see Roseroot Rectory lengthened because I want to know more about the ghost!

Some of the stories begin with a note about a newspaper clipping (from the Sentinel) that ties it into the story. What a great method for writing a novella, from a series of clippings relating to the same event.

If you're looking for a short, varied read, you'll really enjoy 6 Short Stories.