The new issue of Storyglossia is up with my short story, "Mercy Flight", which is an excerpt from my AK book Flying Cold. (And I still don't like that title.)
Just in case you are wondering, the book is fiction but this particular story is probably the closest thing to the truth that I have written. There was a medevac, there were nuns, the state fair was involved. This was one of those crazy situations that I'm sure could only happen in AK. It's too insane to happen anywhere else.
Thanks Jenny - I remember at the time I just kept thinking the whole thing was surreal - it didn't seem possible and was so completely and utterly different from what I (and everyone else) ever thought a "mercy flight" should be.
I still remember the patient's name and I've often wondered just what happened to her.
Excellent story, Colleen. For those of us who live here in AK, it's nice see something close to reality and not the standard, cozy "happy everafter" ending. Great style, great rhythm, just the right amount of world weary cynicism. Makes me want to know more about Amber, but of course I never will. Finish the book, will you?
Coolnees - an opinion from an Alaskan! I'll keep you posted here on what happens next with the book Jim (it is finished) and thanks so much for the comments!
Colleen Mondor is a reviewer for Booklist, Bookslut, Eclectica Magazine and the Voices of New Orleans. I also write fiction and listen to great music. This site is all about the literary world and my place within it.
August 15
2006
03:27 PM
I loved your story! How crazy--and yes, it totally had the ring of truth. Great voice/storytelling rhythm.