First of all this post is not about me, because Stroud Short Stories Greatest Hits is not about me, even if I do happen to be in it, which of course makes me absurdly pleased very time I think about it.
As pleased as the Ugly Duckling when he saw himself reflected in the water and said, ‘Me? A swan?!’
But that’s not the point. I am urging all writers and readers within reach of Cheltenham on Monday Oct 10th to get themselves along because the event is a celebration of the Stroud Short Stories series of events and the brainchild of its organiser John Holland who as well as writing his own particular brand of mordant fiction finds time to give boundless support to other writers and their writing.
As a result I can promise it will be an evening (actually night, it starts at 9 pm – we swans can stand a bit of darkness) of brilliant short stories in an incredible range of styles, voices and genres.
From the sublime to the ridiculous pretty much covers it, so whether you like comedy, tragedy, mystery or any blend of the aforementioned, you will be royally entertained. Yes, this is a promise, because I’ve read or heard every one of the stories, in most cases performed as they will be on the night by the authors themselves.
So here are my fellow performers (who mostly attained swandom long before me):
Andrew Stevenson, Bill Jones, Katherine Hunter,
Mel Golding, Philip Douch and Rick Vick
Some of the stories and many more besides are in the anthology which I’m sure will be on sale on the night.
There’s a previous one of mine in there too, but the one chosen for Cheltenham is Silver Harvest, one of my ‘St Andrews collection‘.
And to hear it you’ll just have to be there.
As for my St Andrews adventure, you will be hearing about it, but it can wait.
Because Cheltenham tickets are on sale now, here.
Like I said, a late show not to be missed.
Ali Bacon, Author 