22 Comments
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Richbee's avatar

A joy to read. Grounded . A feast for the soul and possible flying fish that do leap over the waves, but I believe they are being chased by bigger fish for food. That’s another tale.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Thank you, Richard , for reading this small part of an unusual tale. Unusual for 2024, anyway. I am glad you have found some value in it.

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Kate Henry's avatar

Kind people. We need more of those. Put 'em on the list.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

And, if you can't find any of those kinds of people, just invent them! They do become real after a while. At least for me. Thanks, Kate.

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James Ron's avatar

I always feel wholesome after reading some of Bartle Clunes. Would I be far off, Sharron, thinking you and Vida Lee have much in common?

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

You would not be far off. I WAS a teacher of English to adult immigrants for many years. But parts of me are also in Louvina, Bartle, old Eizer Griggs and poor little Merlene. DO you think we write what we know and what we have lived in most cases?

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Richbee's avatar

We write what we know from experiences and how many times we tripped over our untied shoelaces until we stop to tie the knot or buy a pair of loafers.

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James Ron's avatar

I do think it provides a foundation. It is what we can touch. After that, what is written, or built, can go in almost any direction.

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Mark Starlin's avatar

I love the Bartle Clunes stories. I feel like I have read this one before. Or am I just too familiar with the characters? 🤣 A fine read either way.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Mark, you are so kind. If my memory serves, you read the entire book and commented on each chapter as I posted them. I was touched by your tenacity!

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Mark Starlin's avatar

I did read them all. It was a pleasure.

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Wade Terry's avatar

What an opening…. Gripping. I love your metaphors…. Reminds me of my roots in the south. Heartwarming story. Great start to my day.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Good! It was a quick view into the personalities of several of the characters who live in Riles Crossing. And the tone, as always, is one of kindness. You will not find a thrill a minute in Bartle Clunes, but you will find a quiet, calm oasis to visit for a few minutes in this frantic age we live in. A nice little break.

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Olga Stewart's avatar

But I still believe in Santa Claus. :).

And yes, I'm serious about that.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

To you, Olga, and all others filled with childlike wonder, all dreams are possible.

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Yael Gelardin's avatar

Childhood! Learning something every day! Magic❤️

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Jim Cummings's avatar

Always refreshing to take a quick trip back to the foothills.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Yes. Just to slow down and breathe. I think Bartle Clunes should be bottled and taken in small doses every day, like a tonic. Thank you Jim for taking a second look.

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Jill CampbellMason's avatar

I adore your 'fish' stories! You've got such a talent. I love the flavor of your writing.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Thank you, Jill, for reading from Bartle Clunes. I am so glad you enjoyed your quick "visit" to the California foothills. It is a story that is very meaning-full to me and it's such a pleasure to know you found some worth to it. Happy day to you!

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K.C. Knouse's avatar

Educating children in their surroundings about everyday life. What a concept! I had a teacher/writer/publisher friend from India who conducted star gazing events with his sixth grade class. He commented in his newspaper column that all he needed to give his students an education superior to what was offered in the top schools in the district was a blackboard and a few tables and benches.

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

Ah yes... blackboard, tables, benches, and it helps to love your work and to love kids! Thanks KC for your comments. Much appreciated.

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