Sami understood that proper behavior translated into extra bonus points. Especially during substitute-teacher days. And, with enough good check marks next to her name, she would earn the privilege of selecting a special prize posted on the classroom bulletin board, right next to her teacher’s big desk. Right in front of everyone. With a sparkle in her smile, the ambitious second grader focused on the dangling ticket to win a googly-eyed goldfish – FREE! From Mermaid Katy’s A

Short stories have a way of seeping from my pores. I can't help myself. I'm addicted to writing speculative narratives that feel weird, violent and heart-breaking, yet truthful in representing our humanity.

In this flash moment of time---an experience imprinted deep, deep into my mind---I can't help but think, hating myself, for all the beauty in this world that we bend, break, and destroy. We're good at it. A five-star review.