Although I predominately write mysteries, I broke from my routine and created a fantasy piece for an anthology published by E. Gads Hill Press. The call for submission specified short writings about real or imaginary animals. The anthology, Besties and Beasties, was released September 21.I concocted a preposterous sporting event involving slugs, snails, and pixies, then wrote the story as if a sports announcer were giving a running commentary on the day-long event.
I researched the physical and behavioral traits of different slug species and embedded factual information into the announcer’s monologue. Some of the information is quite unexpected, and I’m tickled to think many readers might assume it’s fictional.
Next time you’re in the Pacific Northwest rainforest, check out the annual Slug-Fest Rodeo and Riding Competition.
