Long Lost Friend

Janice knows better than to make a scene. The other kids will make fun of her. Her mother's boyfriend will do much worse. But it's hard to keep quiet when a dead friend walks into the room.

Beckoning by Joshua Scribner is a short story about a middle schooler haunted by a missing friend. Both Janice and Sadie suffered all kinds of abuse, but Janice is the only one still breathing. Janice soon realizes, her friend is beckoning to her for help.

This story is a lot longer than the author's usual flash fiction, and far more detailed, as a result. The setting and Janice's home life build up the suspense in layers, as Sadie's fate is revealed. The ending is both tragic and beautiful.

Definitely a must for any Scribner fan.

As always,
AstraDaemon