Bewildering Stories welcomes...

James C. G. Shirk

In Jim’s bio, he describes personably and entertainingly the sheer joy of writing. It’s something to remember: the fun of writing is not in seeing your work in print or on line, it’s in getting it there. This is one case where the old adage proves true: it’s not the destination that counts, it’s the trip.

But as a side note, I would opine that these days the adage is best interpreted figuratively. In my experience, I just want to get actual traveling over with — all that uncomfortable moving from one transportation terminal to another.

Jim has had a number of short stories accepted. He’s completed a horror novel and is working on a science fiction novel. Yes, Jim, for your taste you’ve come to the right place at Bewildering Stories.

The characters and theme of “Green Thumb” may enable the reader to enjoy it best by considering it “young adult” literature. Its most receptive audience may be young ladies of high-school age. There’s not a thing wrong with that and a lot right with it. In fact, all writers have a target audience in mind, and they succeed all the better if they give their choice of audience some conscious thought.

“Green Thumb” depicts a young girl, Molly, who discovers that she has a paranormal talent. And even though at the end Molly is a grandmother, young readers can only benefit from a multi-generational story. All things considered, the big picture is less Molly’s “wild talent” than what it implies and how Molly deals with well-meaning but somewhat literal-minded skeptics.

James C. G. Shirk’s bio sketch can be found here.

Welcome to Bewildering Stories, James. We hope to hear from you again soon and often!