Congratulations to Deer Lakes' Irina Franco who was recognized for her submission to the 2023 WPCTE Flash Fiction Contest. Her entry received an Honorable Mention in the 10th-12th grade Division.

Flash Fiction is a type of fiction that possesses all the characteristics of a short story, but, in this case, is written in 500 words or less. Irina had one month to write her submission, but instead completed it in two days.

"I felt like the words just came to me, and my mom was my editor," Irina said. "When I read it I knew I had the vibe that I was going for in the first place."

Irina's piece was inspired by her interest in true crime and her mom's background working in the coroner's office. Her suspenseful piece weaves a tale of deception and a fourth wall break at the end that ties the reader into the story.

"(Being recognized) made me feel like I can strive for my goals and achieve my goals," Irina said. 

Irina credited Mrs. McQueen and Mrs. Taliani for encouraging her to do a submission in middle school and again this school year.

"I did it in seventh grade and was a little too busy to try it again last year, but I've been writing (on my own)," Irina said. "I felt like I was ready to do it again and I'm glad I went for it."