The Idea
Back in 2019 a group of us got together and tried to start a writing club. We came up with our first prompt:
Growing Pains
The intention was for each of us to write the story or lesson from a major growing pain in our life (although, one of had a different interpretation — see: A Tale of Two Trees)
We set a deadline and were off to the races. Well, not really. We actually ended up procrastinating, and submitted our essays at the last minute (except for Catherine, who is a champ)
Challenges aside, it was heartwarming to read each-other’s stories. Here’s an excerpt from our friend Alexey:
I can feel the sweat dripping down my forehead and soreness in my left knee as I assume the defensive position. Our opponents are moving the ball on the far side of the field where my eyes are stalking their every movement as if they were prey. With their heavy breathing and thundering footsteps nearing closer, I pounce into a defensive tackle, trying to bring the ball down. In the heat of the moment I notice my teammate, head-first without even looking, leaping into the scrum and then – Darkness – It was a hit, a strong hit… but the target he ended up with was my head. I open my eyes and everything is green – good, that’s the turf. Now I see sudden red streaks – that’s my blood surging from the lacerated scalp. The headache is approaching faster than the sideline medic running up and asking me if I’m okay. I say that I am, trying to toughen it out, but little did I know how this event would be just the beginning of a long and arduous journey.
Although we never did another prompt, Stepan took our efforts even further and made a book from our collection. He even got our friend Lina, a professional designer, to make us a beautiful cover.
Over the last few years, it’s been a joy to show this little creation to friends who visit our homes.
One night, Joe proposed we share this book with the world. And so the idea to launch was born. One (productive) Sunday later, here were are!
Buy on AmazonWe hope it brings you a smile, and perhaps inspires you to make your own book with your friends 🙂. If you have any thoughts, feel free to reach out to us on Twitter