Reviewed by Zalman Velvel (Stu)

This story is about an alcoholic who is alone for the holidays, and decides to spend Christmas with his estranged family.

The first time I read this brutally honest story about a man with a problem he understands, but can't stop, it hurt. The story is written as if the reader is invited to see the most intimate parts of a man's diary.

This reviewer reads stories at least three times, usually more, to wring out every last bit of meaning authors have invested in their words, and what lies behind their words. I was afraid to read this one a second time, because it hurt so much the first. I gritted my teeth, and began anew.

The second time I read the story, I was drawn in again. The feelings deepened. There was nothing to be afraid of. The third time, same thing.

The last part of my review is supposed to deal with craft, and constructive criticism.

When you capture the human condition as vividly as Tom has, and still leave the reader with a sense of hope, it seems trivial to discuss craft. So I won't.

I would rather give him a feather.

Story by © Tom Dwyer

Reviewed by © Zalman Velvel

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