In our November 2023 Short Story Competition, writer and editor Guest Judge Carolyn Kuebler was impressed with the breadth of complex and exciting topics explored and the insightful feedback that young writers provided to their peers. "All stories are an exercise in empathy and humanity, no matter how outlandish they seem on the outside," says Firza Hapsari, winner of the competition. "I don't think you can ever portray them effectively without nuance."
Read on to hear more about Firza and her writing process, and to learn all about the art of giving feedback from Best Peer Review winner Makayla Morello!
I read non-fiction books and did lots of research before writing. The soul of this particular story came from Angela Y. Davis’s book Are Prisons Obsolete?, as well as real-life events such as the Attica Prison Rebellion.
Yes, I think it’s very important. All stories are an exercise in empathy and humanity, no matter how outlandish they seem on the outside, and I don’t think you can ever portray them effectively without nuance. For my story, I was careful to balance the two subjective perspectives to make sure that readers understood both sides. I did that by writing the conversation between Dee and her mother first before filling it out. That’s why the story is very dialogue-heavy.
I usually gravitate toward fantasy! Especially low/urban fantasy, since I have a particular obsession with stories that blur the lines between magic and reality, like Fonda Lee’s Jade City. Writing this grounded and contemporary short story was a nice change of pace for me.
I was first drawn to this piece because I was hooked by the opening lines; I knew I had to at least read it! Then, I was drawn to review it because I realized what an amazingly unique story it was. I love reading others’ writing, seeing their talents flourish, and helping fellow writers thrive in any way I can.
The aspect of peer reviewing that I focus on the most is really digging deep into the story. I try to take what could be surface-level or ambiguous feedback and provide more specific insight. I also think that, in terms of making comments both personal and encouraging, it is important to let the writer know what they are already doing well! In this review, I tried to give Jess compliments on certain aspects of her writing while also providing constructive criticism. Being kind as well as helpful is so important!
I would absolutely advise Write the World members to give peer reviewing a go! As long as you are diligent and try your best, nothing bad can come of it. It can truly help someone out, and it feels great to do.