Exciting News from Chattanooga: Fiction Contest Winners Revealed!
Chattanooga, get ready to celebrate! The Chattanooga Writers’ Guild has just announced the winners of their Monthly Fiction Contest for August 2024, and ladies and gentlemen, it’s an exciting time for local writers! This month’s theme was “School Days,” and the standout story came from none other than Kate Landers with her captivating submission titled “What Happened Monday.” Not far behind, we have John C. Mannone, who earned the runner-up spot with his piece “Robert’s Lesson.” A big shout-out to all the talented participants and a huge thank you to our esteemed judge, Alexandria Kelly!
Inside “What Happened Monday”
Let’s dive into “What Happened Monday,” a cheeky yet somewhat eerie tale that captures the essence of childhood mischief. The story centers around a young girl named Sara Florida, whose antics turn her neighborhood upside down. The narrator, a neighbor, recounts humorous yet chilling incidents involving Sara, who quickly earns a reputation as the “devil incarnate.”
From the start, it’s clear that something isn’t right with this new family moving into Poppy Street. The narrator remembers the uncomfortable moments at a welcome party, where the mother, Ruthie Florida, shyly describes her daughter as “special.” After all, when has “special” ever been straightforward? As the narrator tries to engage, Ruthie dodges the question, leaving us curious about just what kind of “experiments” Sara is really into.
As school begins, it’s evident that Sara’s reputation precedes her. The poor girl seems to have an affinity for mischief, often found waiting outside the principal’s office more than any first grader should. Our narrator shares amusing anecdotes, like discovering a science kit gifted to Sara abandoned at Goodwill—how telling!
Neighborhood Gossip and Cabin Fever
The neighborhood is abuzz with gossip, and it’s clear how each “quirky” event connects back to the Florida family. Keeping a close watch on each other is a way of life on Poppy Street, and this community sure knows how to gossip! They spin tales of Sara’s wild behavior, from tossing uneaten lunches onto rooftops to disturbing the peace with “Ding Dong Ditch.” Things escalate wildly when they reminisce about a chaotic birthday party where chaos reigned—bouncy castles gone wrong and a debacle that left neighbors shaking their heads but chuckling all the same.
The portrayal of Sara’s shenanigans, which often tip the balance between adorable and alarming, paints a vivid picture of childhood unfiltered. Through all this, we see a vibrant neighborhood that, despite the craziness, looks out for one another, reminding us how connected we all are in our ups and downs.
A Heartfelt Journey in “Robert’s Lesson”
Switching gears, let’s take a peek into “Robert’s Lesson,” from our runner-up John C. Mannone. This narrative is a touching portrayal of childhood, family expectations, and overcoming fears. Robert, the main character, faces the pressure of fulfilling his father’s dreams while dealing with the warmth and supportive nature of his mother, who encourages him to find his own path.
We’re taken back to Robert’s first day at St. Philip and James Elementary, a time of nerves, excitement, and new beginnings. Mannone paints a picture of a young boy grappling with shyness and vulnerability, facing challenges that resonate with anyone who has navigated their first steps into the big world of school. The uplifting tale leads Robert through awkward moments and unexpected mentorships that ultimately empower him.
Final Thoughts
What wonderful submissions these stories are! Both “What Happened Monday” and “Robert’s Lesson” tap into the nuances of childhood, highlighting the joys and trials that define our early years. Whether it’s through neighborly humor or poignant lessons from school days, each story contributes to the rich tapestry of shared experiences that unite us all.
Make sure to follow the Chattanooga Writers’ Guild for upcoming contests—who knows? You or someone you know could be next to shine a light on our vibrant community of storytelling. Here’s to more fantastic writing from Chattanooga!
