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Mama Cried
Jenny was enjoying herself on the swings when Azula, one of the guardians of the playground came to take her away.
Together they journey to a cinder building where Jenny must make a powerful decision.
Together they journey to a cinder building where Jenny must make a powerful decision.
12 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2015
32 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 26, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Talia Haven.)
This was a short, but hard-hitting story, and although it’s hard to say anything about the plot of such a short story without giving too much away, this was a meaningful story too.
I have to say that I felt really sorry for Jenny, and really sorry for her Mama too, and I totally understood why Jenny chose to do what she chose to do.
7.5 out of 10
This was a short, but hard-hitting story, and although it’s hard to say anything about the plot of such a short story without giving too much away, this was a meaningful story too.
I have to say that I felt really sorry for Jenny, and really sorry for her Mama too, and I totally understood why Jenny chose to do what she chose to do.
7.5 out of 10
January 3, 2016
Short but amazing.
Powerful message and incredible main character.
Unique setting and captivating story.
Everyone should read this.
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Powerful message and incredible main character.
Unique setting and captivating story.
Everyone should read this.
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
March 23, 2015
Book – Mama Cried
Author – Talia Haven
Publication Date – January 9, 2015
Genre –Fantasy
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
I want to start off this review by thanking Talia Haven for requesting me to read and review this book.
Never…never in my life have a read a book only 12 pages long that said sooo much! This book gripped me and the funny thing about this is that after I talked Jahy into reading it also…we discussed this book for a longer time than it took me to read it. There were so many points to discuss – so many different opinions about what happened in these 12 pages. So many questions without definite answers.
And here is the kicker…only 12 pages and I choked up – not once….but twice! This book blew me away!
Now what can possibly be said in 12 pages that means so much?? Well, while Jahy and I were going on and on – I finally came up with a great metaphor to explain how much is packed into this story.
Have you ever seen those beach towels/sponges that are pressurized into a small ball? They are soo tiny but when you add them to water, they expand to something enormous. That is this book…it’s small but packs a big fucking punch!
Oh, and I want to add to my review that Jahy needs to eat her words when she originally laughed at me for reading it. You can’t see me…but I’m sticking my tongue out at her.
Re-Cap
We start with Jenny in a playground with her two black puppies.
Jenny goes on a journey to a prison.
Jenny must make a decision.
Yup – that’s all your getting out of me – read the story and find out what shocked me – get shocked too!
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Steam – N/A
Angst – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Told In – Single POV
Heroine/Personality – Jenny – just a small girl on a journey
HEA (Spoiler) – It depends on the reader
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone with a few free minutes who wants to be blown away!
Author – Talia Haven
Publication Date – January 9, 2015
Genre –Fantasy
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
I want to start off this review by thanking Talia Haven for requesting me to read and review this book.
Never…never in my life have a read a book only 12 pages long that said sooo much! This book gripped me and the funny thing about this is that after I talked Jahy into reading it also…we discussed this book for a longer time than it took me to read it. There were so many points to discuss – so many different opinions about what happened in these 12 pages. So many questions without definite answers.
And here is the kicker…only 12 pages and I choked up – not once….but twice! This book blew me away!
Now what can possibly be said in 12 pages that means so much?? Well, while Jahy and I were going on and on – I finally came up with a great metaphor to explain how much is packed into this story.
Have you ever seen those beach towels/sponges that are pressurized into a small ball? They are soo tiny but when you add them to water, they expand to something enormous. That is this book…it’s small but packs a big fucking punch!
Oh, and I want to add to my review that Jahy needs to eat her words when she originally laughed at me for reading it. You can’t see me…but I’m sticking my tongue out at her.
Re-Cap
We start with Jenny in a playground with her two black puppies.
Jenny goes on a journey to a prison.
Jenny must make a decision.
Yup – that’s all your getting out of me – read the story and find out what shocked me – get shocked too!
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Steam – N/A
Angst – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Told In – Single POV
Heroine/Personality – Jenny – just a small girl on a journey
HEA (Spoiler) – It depends on the reader
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone with a few free minutes who wants to be blown away!
April 15, 2015
| Digital copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you a lot! |
I didn't know what to expect of this story and I was glad the blurb doesn't give anything away.
I never thought that 12 pages could make me feel this way and I have to admit I cried a bit. It just makes you think, wonder, about whether it is possible to get any kind of forgiveness at the end. If all of our sins are going to be forgiven if we truly regret them and if religion can or cannot help us.
Man, this world, our world is such a mess and the innocents are the ones who suffer the most.
I knew something was coming. I was on page 3 and I had this very bad feeling but I was not expecting that.
Jenny's story and decisions are things I would never want to face nor I wish such burden to anyone.
I really loved the creativity that Talia had in creating this "state of waiting" as I call it and it's painful and intriguing and somehow beautiful.
I don't want to actually talk about Jenny's decision because I don't want to spoil anyone and it's better if you all go blind on this one. This is one of those stories you wouldn't think they're going to get you so much until you finish it and you just stare at the screen or the page and have no idea what to do.
I didn't know what to expect of this story and I was glad the blurb doesn't give anything away.
I never thought that 12 pages could make me feel this way and I have to admit I cried a bit. It just makes you think, wonder, about whether it is possible to get any kind of forgiveness at the end. If all of our sins are going to be forgiven if we truly regret them and if religion can or cannot help us.
Man, this world, our world is such a mess and the innocents are the ones who suffer the most.
I knew something was coming. I was on page 3 and I had this very bad feeling but I was not expecting that.
Jenny's story and decisions are things I would never want to face nor I wish such burden to anyone.
I really loved the creativity that Talia had in creating this "state of waiting" as I call it and it's painful and intriguing and somehow beautiful.
I don't want to actually talk about Jenny's decision because I don't want to spoil anyone and it's better if you all go blind on this one. This is one of those stories you wouldn't think they're going to get you so much until you finish it and you just stare at the screen or the page and have no idea what to do.
August 12, 2016
** ** 4.5 " WOWZA” Stars***
No one knows how finicky I truly am, more than Carol. To my surprise, she sent me a message insisting that I read this book ASAP. One look at the title/cover and I thought to myself, "Pfft!... Okay, karma accepted . . .. but did she have to be so damn obvious?" . . . I was certain Carol was punking me. I mean really, what in the world could be so riveting about a little girl & her 2 dogs, playing at a park ?
Well. . . .
This is precisely why one should never judge a book by its cover.
Bravo Talia Haven.
. . . . . MWAH!
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
No one knows how finicky I truly am, more than Carol. To my surprise, she sent me a message insisting that I read this book ASAP. One look at the title/cover and I thought to myself, "Pfft!... Okay, karma accepted . . .. but did she have to be so damn obvious?" . . . I was certain Carol was punking me. I mean really, what in the world could be so riveting about a little girl & her 2 dogs, playing at a park ?
Well. . . .
This is precisely why one should never judge a book by its cover.
Bravo Talia Haven.
"You can stop gloating now Carol ! "
. . . . . MWAH!
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
March 15, 2015
The two puppies were Jenny’s constant companions; all the other children in the playground had two puppies by their sides as well. But when the guardian of the playground, Azula appeared, Jenny knew it was her turn to go. She was sorry to leave her new friends, but even though Azula was kind, she knew she had no choice.
The big building Azula took Jenny to scared her a little – but what she saw caused her to realize her decision was really important…
This was an unusual story – very short at only twelve pages – but it was powerful. The happiness and innocence of the children in the playground followed by heartfelt mystery and intrigue. Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
The big building Azula took Jenny to scared her a little – but what she saw caused her to realize her decision was really important…
This was an unusual story – very short at only twelve pages – but it was powerful. The happiness and innocence of the children in the playground followed by heartfelt mystery and intrigue. Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
September 1, 2016
Can't go into great detail without giving much away. You will find yourself with plenty to consider after reading. I had no idea what I was stumbling upon, best to approach this blindly, adds to its high impact.
Impressive emotional short story addressing mercy vs justice with a stunning twist thrown into the mix. Powerful especially given somewhat detailed content and length.
The reader will certainly ponder the sensitive topic - seeking answers, asking questions, the main protagonist along with her story is gut wrenching. Fragile matter presented in a poignant and creative fashion. Highly suggest. Great for deep discussion.
Impressive emotional short story addressing mercy vs justice with a stunning twist thrown into the mix. Powerful especially given somewhat detailed content and length.
The reader will certainly ponder the sensitive topic - seeking answers, asking questions, the main protagonist along with her story is gut wrenching. Fragile matter presented in a poignant and creative fashion. Highly suggest. Great for deep discussion.
July 28, 2015
It's hard to talk about this short story without giving away too much information. But, one thing I could warn you is not to be fooled with the beautiful cover and child-friendly title of this book. This isn't a kind of bedtime story you'd want to read to your kids. - Unless, you want them to understand how horrible, scary and mess up the world we live in and rob them of a happy and innocent childhood they deserve.
With barely 3600 words, this book has manage to give me a roller coaster ride of emotion. First it was confusion, and then shock, then pain followed by Anger. Then realization slap me in the face as this story isn't new anymore, this happens everyday in every part of the world, we see this in the news everyday, and yet, we can't do anything about it, except be angry and sad and ask, Why?
Mama Cried is an imaginative tragedy and haunted portrayal of love and justice in the eyes of an innocent child.
If God can truly forgive our sins if we just truly asks for forgiveness, then what's stopping us, humans, from doing them in the first place? Does He really forgive?
This book was gifted through Amazon, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
With barely 3600 words, this book has manage to give me a roller coaster ride of emotion. First it was confusion, and then shock, then pain followed by Anger. Then realization slap me in the face as this story isn't new anymore, this happens everyday in every part of the world, we see this in the news everyday, and yet, we can't do anything about it, except be angry and sad and ask, Why?
Mama Cried is an imaginative tragedy and haunted portrayal of love and justice in the eyes of an innocent child.
If God can truly forgive our sins if we just truly asks for forgiveness, then what's stopping us, humans, from doing them in the first place? Does He really forgive?
This book was gifted through Amazon, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
November 10, 2015
http://michellebookends.blogspot.com/...
" We stop in front of a heavy steel door. Set inside grey-painted cinder block, on either side of the cinder block is a black of nothingness. Glancing behind, I hope that Christa and Jamal have realized that I have gone and followed to say goodbye, however, the playground and ball field are no longer in sight. "Do you remember why "Mama Cried?......"
Jenny and her puppies are on the playground when a "guardian" comes to take her away. They need to go through a door to the other side. Jenny is going to make a choice. It's so sad that the last thing Jenny remembers is that her " Mama Cried."
An emotional short story. I was quickly drawn in and then surprised and shocked at the premise. There are times in life for judgment and decisions. This story left a child to righteously do so. If you have a minute head over to Amazon and check this one out. It's just a few pages, but well written.
Thank you to Talia Haven for the A.R.C.
" We stop in front of a heavy steel door. Set inside grey-painted cinder block, on either side of the cinder block is a black of nothingness. Glancing behind, I hope that Christa and Jamal have realized that I have gone and followed to say goodbye, however, the playground and ball field are no longer in sight. "Do you remember why "Mama Cried?......"
Jenny and her puppies are on the playground when a "guardian" comes to take her away. They need to go through a door to the other side. Jenny is going to make a choice. It's so sad that the last thing Jenny remembers is that her " Mama Cried."
An emotional short story. I was quickly drawn in and then surprised and shocked at the premise. There are times in life for judgment and decisions. This story left a child to righteously do so. If you have a minute head over to Amazon and check this one out. It's just a few pages, but well written.
Thank you to Talia Haven for the A.R.C.
July 11, 2015
Review Copy from Author for more visit Literary-ly Obsessed
I have never ever read a book 12 pages long and I have never ever felt so many emotions in such a short time. It really does take minutes to read this but it’s the type of story that truly stays with you. The blurb is purposefully short and vague and gives nothing away. Limited to what I can say as the slightest comment can give everything away…
Jenny’s has to make an important decision for someone so young, it delivers a powerful message and pulls on your heartstrings. An amazing, hard-hitting short story.
I have never ever read a book 12 pages long and I have never ever felt so many emotions in such a short time. It really does take minutes to read this but it’s the type of story that truly stays with you. The blurb is purposefully short and vague and gives nothing away. Limited to what I can say as the slightest comment can give everything away…
Jenny’s has to make an important decision for someone so young, it delivers a powerful message and pulls on your heartstrings. An amazing, hard-hitting short story.
January 26, 2015
OMG - I can’t remember ever reading such a powerful story and, despite it being a short story, still being surprised by the ending! I'm still uncertain how to tag it! I just think this is one for all adults to read!
The blurb for the book says: Jenny was enjoying herself on the swings when Azula, one of the guardians of the playground came to take her away.
Together they journey to a cinder building where Jenny must make a powerful decision.
There are no clues as to the decision or the nature of the two puppies who are with her in the playground. When the guardian takes her away you have no idea of her destination or what she will see. The writing is so emotive - it takes the reader from happy, heart wrenching, sad, devastated to decisive. Superb characterisation and story - I certainly hadn’t predicted the ending but it just seems so right for Jenny to make the final decision. Sorry, I don’t want to say any more or it will spoil the book for other readers - I just hope you read it!
The author has created a stupendous, poignant story that packs so much punch into such a short space, I have no hesitation at all in giving this five stars, in fact it deserves to be five stars plus. A great emotional story, enthrallingly written. I will certainly look out for other books by this author and highly recommend other adults to read it. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for this, a very honest review.
The blurb for the book says: Jenny was enjoying herself on the swings when Azula, one of the guardians of the playground came to take her away.
Together they journey to a cinder building where Jenny must make a powerful decision.
There are no clues as to the decision or the nature of the two puppies who are with her in the playground. When the guardian takes her away you have no idea of her destination or what she will see. The writing is so emotive - it takes the reader from happy, heart wrenching, sad, devastated to decisive. Superb characterisation and story - I certainly hadn’t predicted the ending but it just seems so right for Jenny to make the final decision. Sorry, I don’t want to say any more or it will spoil the book for other readers - I just hope you read it!
The author has created a stupendous, poignant story that packs so much punch into such a short space, I have no hesitation at all in giving this five stars, in fact it deserves to be five stars plus. A great emotional story, enthrallingly written. I will certainly look out for other books by this author and highly recommend other adults to read it. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for this, a very honest review.
May 23, 2015
I want to start off by saying thank you to the author, Talia Haven for providing me with a digital copy of her book, Mama Cried, in exchange for my honest review. I am usually not a fan of short stories but recently I'd seen some buzz surrounding this little book on Goodreads and I was honestly intrigued, I wanted to know what all the fuss was about! So when I was contacted for a possible review not only was I pleasantly surprised but I immediately jumped at the chance!
This is a case where you absolutely can NOT judge a book by its cover! I really don't want to give anything away here, this is one where you need to go into not knowing anything to truly appreciate the brilliance behind it. At only 16 pages this is a short, yet thoroughly gripping story and I have no idea how Talia fit SO much into so few pages! I was amazed at how utterly shocked I was by the end of this little tale, it takes a truly talented author to create the kind of emotion I felt with such a short book.
Highly recommend to anyone and everyone and I look forward to reading more by this very talented author!
This is a case where you absolutely can NOT judge a book by its cover! I really don't want to give anything away here, this is one where you need to go into not knowing anything to truly appreciate the brilliance behind it. At only 16 pages this is a short, yet thoroughly gripping story and I have no idea how Talia fit SO much into so few pages! I was amazed at how utterly shocked I was by the end of this little tale, it takes a truly talented author to create the kind of emotion I felt with such a short book.
Highly recommend to anyone and everyone and I look forward to reading more by this very talented author!
March 30, 2015
☆ I was gifted a copy of this title from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! ☆
I actually teared up while reading this. I hadn’t expected much, but after the first page or so I couldn’t help but feel intrigued and wonder what was going to happen next.
Mama Cried is one of those reads where it tugs at your heartstrings and makes you feel as anguished as Jenny and the distress and suffering of her aging mother.
It centers on the quintessential integration of making a choice and the impact of its decision-- whether to seek justice and avenge those hurt by the afflicted action? or to let the offender go without repentance whatsoever?
Honestly guys, I never knew that 12 mere pages could pack so much punch and hold so much emotion! I literally wanted to hug and protect Jenny from harm and coddle her mother for all of the pain she's been through.
What happened to Jenny and her family is something I wish no parent, family, child and victim will ever have to face in their lifetime.
God bless every single one of you and may you and your families be cherished and protected from those who look to cause us misfortune or evil always…
Darkness will always be triumphed by light. No bad deed goes unpunished.
I actually teared up while reading this. I hadn’t expected much, but after the first page or so I couldn’t help but feel intrigued and wonder what was going to happen next.
Mama Cried is one of those reads where it tugs at your heartstrings and makes you feel as anguished as Jenny and the distress and suffering of her aging mother.
It centers on the quintessential integration of making a choice and the impact of its decision-- whether to seek justice and avenge those hurt by the afflicted action? or to let the offender go without repentance whatsoever?
Honestly guys, I never knew that 12 mere pages could pack so much punch and hold so much emotion! I literally wanted to hug and protect Jenny from harm and coddle her mother for all of the pain she's been through.
What happened to Jenny and her family is something I wish no parent, family, child and victim will ever have to face in their lifetime.
God bless every single one of you and may you and your families be cherished and protected from those who look to cause us misfortune or evil always…
Darkness will always be triumphed by light. No bad deed goes unpunished.
February 12, 2015
Mama Cried is the sort of short story that lingers long after you’ve finished reading. It’s dark, disturbing in a very pure and human way, and filled with an alluring mix of guilt and innocence. And it begins, as such tales surely must, with a lovely, happy, human scene, haunted by just that hint of mystery to pull the reader in.
Mama’s crying was caused by past tragedy, and the story deals with questions of guilt, forgiveness, and eternity, through the eyes of a wounded child. Does God forgive? Do priests have the right to pronounce forgiveness? And how can anyone, priest, victim, or accuser ever know if a criminal’s forgiveness, or his turning to God for forgiveness, is real or a lie?
Readers who are sure beyond doubt of the answers might struggle with this tale. The line between vengeance and mercy is skewed and blurred, as is that between human and divine power. But honest human emotion is very powerfully portrayed, and this brief tale could inspire many a long conversation, or dark thoughts on a gloomy night.
Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy and I offer my honest review.
Mama’s crying was caused by past tragedy, and the story deals with questions of guilt, forgiveness, and eternity, through the eyes of a wounded child. Does God forgive? Do priests have the right to pronounce forgiveness? And how can anyone, priest, victim, or accuser ever know if a criminal’s forgiveness, or his turning to God for forgiveness, is real or a lie?
Readers who are sure beyond doubt of the answers might struggle with this tale. The line between vengeance and mercy is skewed and blurred, as is that between human and divine power. But honest human emotion is very powerfully portrayed, and this brief tale could inspire many a long conversation, or dark thoughts on a gloomy night.
Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy and I offer my honest review.
March 7, 2015
I was quite shocked and astounded after reading this book. I actually cried too, not just Mama. Seriously, this book gripped me to the bottom of my heart. It's a story about Jenny playing with her hounds and other kids. One of the guardians, Azula approached her and took her to a place where she saw the abominable man who did her wrong. Mama cried from a distance as she clutched Jenny's photo. The scene was heartbreaking.
At first, I thought this was a light kiddie read, something I can share to my kids and read during bedtime. Good thing I decided to peruse it first before reading it to my sons. It was a short story that was sad and emotional. As a mom, it pains me when my kids are sick or feeling under the weather. But with Jenny, this was a totally different case and not only it pained me, my heart actually broke for her. Talia Haven, the author, had delved into my heart and made me trust the right people and value life more than anything else. With just 8 pages of a story, I got a glimpse of love, innocence and justice in the eyes of a child. Thanks so much Ms Haven for a powerful story.
At first, I thought this was a light kiddie read, something I can share to my kids and read during bedtime. Good thing I decided to peruse it first before reading it to my sons. It was a short story that was sad and emotional. As a mom, it pains me when my kids are sick or feeling under the weather. But with Jenny, this was a totally different case and not only it pained me, my heart actually broke for her. Talia Haven, the author, had delved into my heart and made me trust the right people and value life more than anything else. With just 8 pages of a story, I got a glimpse of love, innocence and justice in the eyes of a child. Thanks so much Ms Haven for a powerful story.
February 23, 2015
OMG what a read. Its only 12 pages long, that's all. If I wrote a letter that short I wouldn't have fitted all that in! This is amazing.......a....maz.....ing. I kid you not.
I am not a fan of short stories, no matter how short and this one IS short. How can such an author Talia Haven fit sooooooooo much into one little book!
How could this author fit sooooooo much emotion into this short book?
How could this author get me in such a bloody state at the end of this book!
When Talia Haven approached me and asked if I would consider reading her book, I took a look and didn't realize it was a short story. When I began to read it, I realized it.
The conclusion of this is amazing, I wasn't expecting this at all, but very cleverly crafted.
It takes a very good author to cram such a wonderful story into such few pages that give such a reaction as many of her reviewers have already.
AMAZING work.
Go on ...do it...one click, you won't be disappointed.
January 24, 2015
Mama Cried is a short story, roughly 8 pages, but it's shortness does little to diminish it's story. Published by author Talia Haven in January of 2015, Mama Cried handles some really heavy topics while dancing around the innocence of a child.
First and foremost, I'd like to thank Ms. Haven for allowing me the opportunity to review Mama Cried. This is my first time reviewing a standalone short story and I was a little worried that the review wouldn't be thorough enough. However after reading your work, I now know that a short story of this quality can't be summed up in a few simple words.
Where exactly do I begin? Finally a written piece of work that has me struggling to write something about it, who knew it would come in so few pages? The story behind the story is pretty simple, three friends playing with their puppies keeping a sharp eye on them. But is any story really that simple? Mama Cried definitely isn't, and when Azula tells Jenny that "it's time to go" is when you get your first hint that there's more than meets the eye with this story. That is one thing I like about Mama Cried, and as you'll see towards the end the reader isn't the only one who's dropped in this place surrounded by children and their puppies. It gives the reader a sense that they're experiencing what the main character is experiencing, and after reading the story all the way through that's heartbreaking.
Azula is a guardian, or that's what Jenny and the other children call her, but guardian or not she's gentle and kind in her dealings with them. As Jenny and Azula walk towards the steel door, Azula's questions seem almost routine in that they're asked to every child she escorts. What was the last thing you remember? Jenny's answer to this question gives us our first clue to the story's location, "and you said this is where all the dead children come." All the dead children; where else could Jenny be but heaven? But even that is in doubt as she's now being led away from the other children, what could possibly be behind that steel door?
Judgement. Judgement lies behind the steel door but it isn't Jenny's, it belongs to a man by the name of Theodore James Moore III. In the instant that Azula, Jenny, and Jenny's puppies pass through the door, the two puppies have grown into full sized hounds. In terms of judgement, if Azula represents an angel there could only be one thing the hounds Morgan and Wilsen represent. Hell Hounds, the bad judgement punishment for depraved souls.
Then, so suddenly we're delivered the first of many gut wrenching sentences. "Today is your judgment day, and Jenny gets to decide your fate.” This poor child gets to decide the fate of a man she barely recognizes, but according to Mr. Moore his fate has already been decided by God. The priest he spoke with has already forgiven him of his sins and Theodore Moore believes he has a one way ticket to heaven. “In this instance it is not God who gives forgiveness, but rather the victim who gets the final
say.”
Is Jenny a victim of Theodore Moore? This has to be the case if she's to decide his fate, but could the worst have happened to this little girl? Sadly we're not told, as the priest walks into the cell Azula and Jenny depart down an empty corridor. Jenny needs to decide that man's fate and whether she wants to or not, Azula will ensure a decision is made. For that is the reason children go to "the playground" and receive their puppies, to decide the fate of the people who harm them.
The remaining few pages take place in the execution room and surrounding observation rooms. Jenny's mother is present and we finally learn exactly what happened to both of them. Jenny isn't the only victim in this story, the toll Jenny's death has taken on her mother is obvious to all around. But I won't tell you what happened to them, and I won't tell you what happens to Theodore James Moore III. The only way you're going to find out is by purchasing this short story, which at the listed price is an absolute steal.
As I've said before, a reviewer should never reveal too much of a story's plot to the point that people would rather read my review than buy the book. If at any point in this review you thought to yourself that this is the kind of story that you'd get into, I recommend that you pick this short story up and give it a good read. This story definitely deserves a spot on my suggested reading list!
To Ms. Haven, what an incredible story and I am honored you requested me to review it. If this is the level of writing that can be expected of you, I can only imagine your longer written works must be breathtaking and I hope to one day be able to review them. Mama Cried isn't just a story for parents, or people with children in their lives. This is a story that will touch everyone's heart and may just touch people in ways they never expected it to. Sadly this type of writing is in short supply these days, but I'm glad to know of at least one person who's captured that ability.
First and foremost, I'd like to thank Ms. Haven for allowing me the opportunity to review Mama Cried. This is my first time reviewing a standalone short story and I was a little worried that the review wouldn't be thorough enough. However after reading your work, I now know that a short story of this quality can't be summed up in a few simple words.
Where exactly do I begin? Finally a written piece of work that has me struggling to write something about it, who knew it would come in so few pages? The story behind the story is pretty simple, three friends playing with their puppies keeping a sharp eye on them. But is any story really that simple? Mama Cried definitely isn't, and when Azula tells Jenny that "it's time to go" is when you get your first hint that there's more than meets the eye with this story. That is one thing I like about Mama Cried, and as you'll see towards the end the reader isn't the only one who's dropped in this place surrounded by children and their puppies. It gives the reader a sense that they're experiencing what the main character is experiencing, and after reading the story all the way through that's heartbreaking.
Azula is a guardian, or that's what Jenny and the other children call her, but guardian or not she's gentle and kind in her dealings with them. As Jenny and Azula walk towards the steel door, Azula's questions seem almost routine in that they're asked to every child she escorts. What was the last thing you remember? Jenny's answer to this question gives us our first clue to the story's location, "and you said this is where all the dead children come." All the dead children; where else could Jenny be but heaven? But even that is in doubt as she's now being led away from the other children, what could possibly be behind that steel door?
Judgement. Judgement lies behind the steel door but it isn't Jenny's, it belongs to a man by the name of Theodore James Moore III. In the instant that Azula, Jenny, and Jenny's puppies pass through the door, the two puppies have grown into full sized hounds. In terms of judgement, if Azula represents an angel there could only be one thing the hounds Morgan and Wilsen represent. Hell Hounds, the bad judgement punishment for depraved souls.
Then, so suddenly we're delivered the first of many gut wrenching sentences. "Today is your judgment day, and Jenny gets to decide your fate.” This poor child gets to decide the fate of a man she barely recognizes, but according to Mr. Moore his fate has already been decided by God. The priest he spoke with has already forgiven him of his sins and Theodore Moore believes he has a one way ticket to heaven. “In this instance it is not God who gives forgiveness, but rather the victim who gets the final
say.”
Is Jenny a victim of Theodore Moore? This has to be the case if she's to decide his fate, but could the worst have happened to this little girl? Sadly we're not told, as the priest walks into the cell Azula and Jenny depart down an empty corridor. Jenny needs to decide that man's fate and whether she wants to or not, Azula will ensure a decision is made. For that is the reason children go to "the playground" and receive their puppies, to decide the fate of the people who harm them.
The remaining few pages take place in the execution room and surrounding observation rooms. Jenny's mother is present and we finally learn exactly what happened to both of them. Jenny isn't the only victim in this story, the toll Jenny's death has taken on her mother is obvious to all around. But I won't tell you what happened to them, and I won't tell you what happens to Theodore James Moore III. The only way you're going to find out is by purchasing this short story, which at the listed price is an absolute steal.
As I've said before, a reviewer should never reveal too much of a story's plot to the point that people would rather read my review than buy the book. If at any point in this review you thought to yourself that this is the kind of story that you'd get into, I recommend that you pick this short story up and give it a good read. This story definitely deserves a spot on my suggested reading list!
To Ms. Haven, what an incredible story and I am honored you requested me to review it. If this is the level of writing that can be expected of you, I can only imagine your longer written works must be breathtaking and I hope to one day be able to review them. Mama Cried isn't just a story for parents, or people with children in their lives. This is a story that will touch everyone's heart and may just touch people in ways they never expected it to. Sadly this type of writing is in short supply these days, but I'm glad to know of at least one person who's captured that ability.
January 11, 2015
I have to say I wasn’t sure what to expect when I saw how short the story was. Talia Haven definitely has a gift for packing a lot into so little. The story starts with Jenny and her friends swinging on the playground. Her guardian, Azula come to get her. She and her puppies go along with Azula to a building. I thought it strange that Jenny would ask her if she was going where all of the other children went. At first I thought maybe she was being adopted. When asked what her last memory was, she replied, “Mama cried.” It is at this point I realized she is dead. She is told she will enter and have to make a decision. She is also told her puppies with be grown up. What she sees, and what she remembers is so heart wrenching. At first I thought it unfair for her to have to make the type of decision she had to make. As the story progressed and came toward its end I knew it was right that she be the one. The ending was very satisfying. I was amazed that the author was able to pack so much emotion into her writing. I definitely will recommend her writing to others and will look forward to reading more from her.
July 18, 2015
This review was originally posted on Book Blog Bird
Mama Cried is a short story by Talia Haven and it tells the story of Jenny, a girl who is playing in the park on the swing set with her two puppies and her two friends, Christa and Jamal, when her guardian Azula comes over and takes her to a cinderblock building where Jenny must make an important decision.
I really, really enjoyed this story and I was blown away at how much it managed to pack into just 3,600 words. Seriously, there’s skeins of plot and emotion in here. There’s enough characterisation and description to keep it going, but it’s not overburdened. The author tells you just enough and doesn’t waste space with unnecessary exposition or highlighting.
There’s not much I can say about the plot without giving too much away, and half the enjoyment was that I knew virtually nothing about it before I started it, but suffice to say that the plot is excellent with a superb finale.
I think Mama Cried is on Amazon for like a pound at the moment (or free on Unlimited). It’s well worth a punt.
Mama Cried is a short story by Talia Haven and it tells the story of Jenny, a girl who is playing in the park on the swing set with her two puppies and her two friends, Christa and Jamal, when her guardian Azula comes over and takes her to a cinderblock building where Jenny must make an important decision.
I really, really enjoyed this story and I was blown away at how much it managed to pack into just 3,600 words. Seriously, there’s skeins of plot and emotion in here. There’s enough characterisation and description to keep it going, but it’s not overburdened. The author tells you just enough and doesn’t waste space with unnecessary exposition or highlighting.
There’s not much I can say about the plot without giving too much away, and half the enjoyment was that I knew virtually nothing about it before I started it, but suffice to say that the plot is excellent with a superb finale.
I think Mama Cried is on Amazon for like a pound at the moment (or free on Unlimited). It’s well worth a punt.
January 14, 2015
Talia Haven packs plenty of story into the twelve pages of Mama Cried. When I started reading this story I was unsure what sort of journey the author planned on taking me on, after all we meet young Jenny, swinging with her friends, her two puppies lying on the ground by the swings. Soon though we learn that there is much more going on than initially meets the eye when Jenny is taken to a cinder block building by a guardian named Azula. When she goes into the building she is faced with making a horrendous decision, but ultimately her decision is based on not her own hurts but the hurt she knows her beloved mother feels daily.
There is so much emotion packed into this story that it literally jumps from the pages. Talia Haven pulled me into the story so effectively that I actually shed a tear as the truth of the story unfolded. A very well crafted short story that flows well, paired with rich detail allowing me to visualise the events as they unfolded. The author packs a real emotional wallop with a very satisfying end. I will certainly be watching for more from this author.
There is so much emotion packed into this story that it literally jumps from the pages. Talia Haven pulled me into the story so effectively that I actually shed a tear as the truth of the story unfolded. A very well crafted short story that flows well, paired with rich detail allowing me to visualise the events as they unfolded. The author packs a real emotional wallop with a very satisfying end. I will certainly be watching for more from this author.
February 7, 2015
This is very short, so I can't say much without spoiling things.
It's told from the point of view of a child. The innocence and simplicity of the speech plays a dual role in both keeping the whole thing from being too heavy and also, somehow, making the events that lead to the story seem really, really heartbreaking.
It feels a bit like the author is wrestling with how deep into the darkness she wants to go with it. Like a movie that's rated PG-13 when it really ought to be R, I tend not to like it when a story's theme is watered down to avoid being offensive or whatever. But by the grace of brevity, it kind of works here.
I do wish Haven had gone into more detail on some things. Like the puppies. Mostly the puppies, actually.
I love the playground and the way she played with the capriciousness of children to keep the reader uncertain in the beginning.
All in all, it's a short read and good if you maybe don't want to be happy for the day.
*Was given a free copy to review.
It's told from the point of view of a child. The innocence and simplicity of the speech plays a dual role in both keeping the whole thing from being too heavy and also, somehow, making the events that lead to the story seem really, really heartbreaking.
It feels a bit like the author is wrestling with how deep into the darkness she wants to go with it. Like a movie that's rated PG-13 when it really ought to be R, I tend not to like it when a story's theme is watered down to avoid being offensive or whatever. But by the grace of brevity, it kind of works here.
I do wish Haven had gone into more detail on some things. Like the puppies. Mostly the puppies, actually.
I love the playground and the way she played with the capriciousness of children to keep the reader uncertain in the beginning.
All in all, it's a short read and good if you maybe don't want to be happy for the day.
*Was given a free copy to review.
April 30, 2015
*Gulp* Wow. Before reading this short story, I had no idea that 12 short pages could make me feel so ... sad and helpless. I actually thought Mama Cried was just a children's story with nice illustrations, but I was totally wrong. It's a raw and tough short story. It was unpredictable at first, and then downright shocking as the story progressed. I felt for Jenny and her innocence, of what she went through and what her mother was going through. It tore my heart to read how she had to make the decision even though she just wanted to go back to play with her faithful guardians and be a kid. Simply astounding. This short story really makes you think about the evil in this world and the strength of a pure heart. I really hope many get the chance to read this story. It's worth to check out.
*Thanks go out to the author for the free copy in exchange of my honest opinion. This review was also posted at my blog, The Reader and the Chef.*
*Thanks go out to the author for the free copy in exchange of my honest opinion. This review was also posted at my blog, The Reader and the Chef.*
March 19, 2015
This review is on my blog: http://bookchick2013.blogspot.com/201...
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this book not knowing what it was about. However, I think the story was very interesting and is more interesting when you go into it not having any idea what it is about. When I was requested to review this book, I said yes without knowing what it was about. I actually got a little concerned and thought that something would happen that I wouldn't be comfortable reading but it was actually pretty good.
The story felt like poetry because of the short story but the context was very deep and emotional. You can feel the sadness and anger coming out of the book when you read it and I believe the author wrote this with a lot of emotion. At first I was confused but it all really comes together at the end.
It is a short story and can be considered very emotional for some viewers but I definitely recommend it. It is emotional but not to much that you can't take it.
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this book not knowing what it was about. However, I think the story was very interesting and is more interesting when you go into it not having any idea what it is about. When I was requested to review this book, I said yes without knowing what it was about. I actually got a little concerned and thought that something would happen that I wouldn't be comfortable reading but it was actually pretty good.
The story felt like poetry because of the short story but the context was very deep and emotional. You can feel the sadness and anger coming out of the book when you read it and I believe the author wrote this with a lot of emotion. At first I was confused but it all really comes together at the end.
It is a short story and can be considered very emotional for some viewers but I definitely recommend it. It is emotional but not to much that you can't take it.
July 29, 2015
This book is also on my blog Less Reality More Books
*I was given a copy of this book by author Talia Haven, so I have to thank her for giving me this opportunity.*
I don’t really read short stories, but I never expected one that is only 12 pages to give me so many emotions. It only takes about ten minutes to read but the story will stay in your mind so much longer than that! The blurb is short on purpose so as not to give anything away, as you would need to go into this book blind to get a full feel for what happens.
Jenny was just playing on the swings in the playground with puppies when a woman appears, takes her hand and says that it’s time for Jenny to make an important decision. For someone so young to be forced into this, it really delivers a powerful message about love, revenge, life and death. A truly amazing story, one anyone should read, especially given the length of the book.
*I was given a copy of this book by author Talia Haven, so I have to thank her for giving me this opportunity.*
I don’t really read short stories, but I never expected one that is only 12 pages to give me so many emotions. It only takes about ten minutes to read but the story will stay in your mind so much longer than that! The blurb is short on purpose so as not to give anything away, as you would need to go into this book blind to get a full feel for what happens.
Jenny was just playing on the swings in the playground with puppies when a woman appears, takes her hand and says that it’s time for Jenny to make an important decision. For someone so young to be forced into this, it really delivers a powerful message about love, revenge, life and death. A truly amazing story, one anyone should read, especially given the length of the book.
May 4, 2015
I wasn't sure what to expect with this. It's been so long since the author asked me to review that I forgot what it was even about. Thankfully the synopsis didn't give anything from the story away because this is just 12 pages long. I wish it was so much longer! It was so amazing for only 12 pages.
I wasn't expecting that ending though, oh my gosh it was awesome. I would never want Jenny's tough decision and I don't know how a kid could be expected to make it. I can't say much more because I don't want to give anything away from readers who want to read Mama Cried. Talia Haven is very talented and I hope to read many more books or short stories by her.
For more of my reviews visit: http://www.hyperashley.com/
I wasn't expecting that ending though, oh my gosh it was awesome. I would never want Jenny's tough decision and I don't know how a kid could be expected to make it. I can't say much more because I don't want to give anything away from readers who want to read Mama Cried. Talia Haven is very talented and I hope to read many more books or short stories by her.
For more of my reviews visit: http://www.hyperashley.com/
February 15, 2015
For a short story (12 pages), this is packed full of emotion, and incredibly thought-provoking. It starts out as a sweet story, with children playing on the playground, accompanied by their puppies. But then it begins to get darker, and you realize all is not as it seemed. By the time you get to the totally unexpected ending, you will have your head in a whirl. It makes you question your ideas of justice and of the afterlife--and it will stay with you for a long time to come.
**I was given a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review, and all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
**I was given a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review, and all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
February 21, 2015
Mama Cried by Talia Haven is a short story. There is a spoiler alert. There is a dilemna here do you believe in the priests comments you are forgiven or does God take revenge on a murderer. You are given the outline that Jenny's father, Theodore killed his daughter. Azul is her guardian and she has two dogs, Morgan and Wilson, as protectors. Azul kept asking Jenny if she remembered. Then told Jenny the choice was hers. it wouldnt change anything. She could return to play with the children after she made her choice. Jenny looked over and her mama was crying. Mama waited 14 years for Theodore's execution.
July 22, 2015
THOUGHT PROVOKING AND POWERFUL TAlE
In this very short (12 pages) novella, Haven challenges our thoughts and beliefs about forgiveness. I don't want to give away the plot so I will not go into the story itself, but it left me wondering why it was so short. The story was full of strength, peaked my curiosity, made me sad, filled me with wonder, and I wanted more.
You are a talented writer, Talia Haven, and I will read more of whatever it is you write.
In this very short (12 pages) novella, Haven challenges our thoughts and beliefs about forgiveness. I don't want to give away the plot so I will not go into the story itself, but it left me wondering why it was so short. The story was full of strength, peaked my curiosity, made me sad, filled me with wonder, and I wanted more.
You are a talented writer, Talia Haven, and I will read more of whatever it is you write.
March 10, 2015
I enjoyed this story and it's one I will think about for a long time to come. the writing is smooth and the story draws you in. I'll be looking into more books and stories by this author -- she's very talented!
January 4, 2016
Good short tale. A different perspective than I usually see, which I like.
Worth the read. Would make a good twilight zone episode.
Worth the read. Would make a good twilight zone episode.
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