The Woods by Leanne Dyck (short story)

Too early on Friday, June 22, I wrote this very short story for you. I hope you enjoy reading it.

The Woods

'into the woods' ldyck

Tall trees encircle me. Sunlight filters in through a canopy of leaves. Am I lost? No, I know these woods. A bird sings from a branch overhead.

A loud rustle.

Is it a bear?

I hear him growl. I see his teeth, his claws-- Only in my imagination.

There it is again. I head to the sound. 

Am I crazy? Maybe.

A fawn tangled in vines. 

I approach slowly, trying not to be perceived as a threat. 

Why is it alone? Where is its mother?

I move quickly to untangle its legs. 

The fawn is free. 

Her mother steps into the clearing and together they disappear into the safety of the woods. 

'graceful ladies' ldyck

August on this blog:  

August 5:  If you've ever wondered what my writing day is like, My Writing Desk (short story) should answer all your questions.

August 12:  I'm thrilled to introduce you to children's author Susin Nielsen. I know you'll enjoy reading her interview. 

August 19:  

Book review:  We Are All Molecules (YA) by Susin Nielsen

August 26:  Writers have little to show for a day's worth of work--no punched time clock, no dirty fingernails. This can lead to many misconceptions. Lazy Bones (short story) explores these misconceptions. 

'dreamy sky' ldyck

Sharing my author journey...

Do you like to travel? Do you want to promote your new release? Here's an idea (or three)...

Book Review: The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani

Buy this book

The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani follows a circular plot--beginning and ending with the murders of two young children:  Mila and her little brother Adam. (Click this link to learn more about circular plots.)

Who would do such a thing?

Louise seems to be the perfect nanny. Not only does she appear to be a compassionate child care provider but she also keeps an immaculate house and serves delicious meals. But what happens behind closed doors...

In the middle pages of The Perfect Nanny, Slimani provides a case study of Louise--murderer. We hear accounts from Stephani (daughter), Rose Grinberg (neighbour), Jacques (ex-husband), and Hector Rouvier  (former charge).

Exploiting our fears

Skilled thriller authors, such as Leila Slimani, know how to exploit commonly shared fears in order to write a gripping tale. 

In this case:  What can happen to the most vulnerable in our society when they are left in the care of relative strangers?

As an Early Childhood Educator caring for children in day care centres, I've come face-to-face with this fear and have helped parents overcome it.

'Early childhood educators work with one of society's most vulnerable groups--young children. The quality of the interactions between young children and their caregivers has a significant, enduring impact on the children's lives. The intimacy of the relationship and the potential that exists to do harm call for a commitment on the part of early childhood educators to the highest of ethical practice. (p. 1 Code of Ethics:  Early Childhood Educators of British Columbia)

What is left for you discover, dear reader, are how and why these murders were committed. The Perfect Nanny is a quick, grippy read.

More

'Even if you're not writing in the horror or thriller genre, a healthy dose of fear is essential in your story.'  Click this link for tips on how to achieve it.

 'into the woods' ldyck

Next post:  Published on Sunday, July 29th (at approximately 5 PM PST)
The story The Woods was inspired by my walks in the woods. What are the chances?☺

Me:  "Come, Abby."

Abby:  "I'm thinking about it."

Sharing my author journey... 
I'm slowly and steadily completing my summer writing goals. They are...