Alta Journal published three pieces of fiction this year and each one is a worthy and emotional adventure. Unwind with this short—but special—collection of stories.
“PRIMA,” BY DAGOBERTO GILB
Dagoberto Gilb’s vivid and intense short story is about the complexities of family amid a strained reunion. “Prima,” in which the narrator’s cousin returns from jail, allows us to peer over the shoulder of our central character, which creates a sense of place and past through the course of one overnight. The story was included in Gilb’s newly released collection, New Testaments: Stories.
“CHINESE SCHOOL,” BY SYLVIA BROWNRIGG
The pangs of regret linger with Sophie, a second grader, when she tags along to her best friend’s Chinese school. The child of a single mother, Sophie revels in the comfort of the Chin family home until she disobeys instructions. In this moving story from author Sylvia Brownrigg, we’re transported back to Sophie’s childhood (and probably, for some of us, our own) as Sophie navigates her curiosity and need for comfort.
“WENDY CARMEL, CARMEL WENDY,” BY LISA TEASLEY
Sam goes looking for answers to his troubled past along the misty coast of Big Sur. Instead, in Lisa Teasley’s fascinating short story, he finds the Henry Miller Library and a brief romantic affair.•
