My primary motivation to write has always been the many interesting, colorful characters I've met during my journey through life. I've had close relationships with some unique, and sometimes cantankerous friends, not just by dumb luck, but because I gravitate toward that kind of person. They have amused and inspired me and kept life interesting. And I am especially gratified that a few of those who are no longer with us will live on in my stories.
I've discovered after the fact that my stories can be grouped into three different categories: One, character-driven; two, family affairs; and three, the Catchall group which includes humor, horror, conjectural, and even some fantasy. Six short stories and one essay are included here for your reading pleasure. Enjoy!
Character-based:
Some Rain Must Fall
Two middle-aged men go on a day trip to San Francisco where they discover some things about one another.
Black and White
A timid schoolgirl endures challenges as one of three black students integrating a Bakersfield elementary school.
Family Matters:
Alone in Paradise
A man goes to Hawaii to visit his dying aunt.
Hamlin Street
A young boy deals with his parents' separation and his father's absence.
Humor/Horror:
Promises Broken, Promises Kept
A man's beloved grandmother is hospitalized for a broken ankle. Though her ankle is healing, something strange is going on.
The Isla Vista Fish Head
Friends place a bet on whether one of their friends who insists on smelling everything will actually smell a new book.
Essay:
OJ, Kareem, and Me
An essay about being in college classes with two of the most famous athletes in American history.
